Genetic Evidence Establishes Link Between Attila’s Huns and Xiongnu Empire
Recent genetic studies reveal a key link between Attila’s Huns and the Xiongnu empire, confirming that some Huns are descendants of the Xiongnu elite. While there is a genetic relationship, most Huns are predominantly of European descent, indicating a complex ancestry.
Researchers have identified a significant genetic connection between Attila’s Huns and the ancient Xiongnu empire, which engaged in conflicts with Han China. This revelation stems from genomic analyses conducted on ancient DNA, providing insights into the lineage and ancestry of the Huns, who notably emerged in Europe during the late fourth century and displaced various Germanic tribes, notably the Goths. The findings have long been contemplated by historians and archaeologists, who have sought to unravel the Huns’ origins amidst limited historical evidence.
The international research team has confirmed the existence of direct descendants from the elite class of the Xiongnu within the Hunnic population. Although there is a genetic link, it is essential to note that the majority of the Hunnic populace remains of predominantly European descent. In their findings published in the peer-reviewed journal PNAS on February 24, they provided substantial evidence through shared genomic tracts linking the Xiongnu elite with individuals from the Carpathian Basin, suggesting some European Huns trace their lineage back to these ancient rulers.
The research team observed, “long-shared genomic tracts provide compelling evidence of genetic lineages directly connecting some individuals of the highest Xiongnu-period elite with … Carpathian basin individuals, showing that some European Huns descended from them.” Furthermore, they clarified that there was no significant presence of a large community of eastern or steppe descent among the Huns and their successors in the Carpathian Basin.
In summary, recent genomic analysis has unveiled a genetic link between the Huns and the Xiongnu, affirming longstanding theories regarding their connection. While genetic ties exist between some elite figures from the Xiongnu and the Huns, the broader Hunnic population primarily consists of European ancestry. This research enhances our understanding of the migration and interaction of ancient peoples throughout Eurasian history.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
