http://www.presstv.ir/detail.aspx?id=48501§ionid=3510212
Genes of Americas reflect history
Sat, 22 Mar 2008 11:54:18
Colonizers changed gene pool in Latin America
*Results of a new genetic study support argument that European colonizers
of Latin America were determined to exterminate native men. *
The genetic study of seven Latin American countries, ranging from Chile to
Mexico, suggests that European colonizers mated with indigenous women after
killing their men en masse.
"It is a very sad and terrible historical fact, they were basically
annihilated.
"Not only did the European settlers take away land and property, they also
took away the women and, as much as possible, they exterminated the men,"
said Professor Andres Ruiz-Linares of University College London, who led the
study conducted by universities across Latin America, the US and Europe.
The study also shows that the European colonization of the American
continent which began in the late 15th century caused dramatic genetic
change in local population.
But, the study points out, some regions like Mexico City "still preserve the
genetic heritage" since large population of natives inhabited there at the
time of colonization.
Ruiz-Linares added that the research shows that despite attempts to erase
Native Americans, there is genetic continuity between the pre- and
post-Columbian populations.
MK/JG
