May 7, 2012

Guns in Ancient Egypt and Nubia?

Join Our Community of Science Lovers!

This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American

Image of the Week #41, May 7th, 2012:

From:Worth Pitching? Lost civilization that punched holes in skulls by Charles Q. Choi at Assignment: Impossible.

On supporting science journalism

If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.

Source:Like You Need a Hole in the Head: Tool Innovation a Possible Cause of Trephination. A Case from Kerma, Nubia by D. C. Martin, in International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, via io9

What looks like a bullet hole in this ancient skull is actually the result of a sophisticated medical procedure called trepanning that was carried out on an individual more than 3500 years ago in what is modern day Sudan. The procedure was likely done with a drill similar to those used to hollow out sarcophagi in ancient Egypt, but the reason for such a dramatic surgery remains shrouded by time. We do know, however, that the individual survived long enough after the procedure for the bone to heal significantly.

It’s Time to Stand Up for Science

If you enjoyed this article, I’d like to ask for your support. Scientific American has served as an advocate for science and industry for 180 years, and right now may be the most critical moment in that two-century history.

I’ve been a Scientific American subscriber since I was 12 years old, and it helped shape the way I look at the world. SciAm always educates and delights me, and inspires a sense of awe for our vast, beautiful universe. I hope it does that for you, too.

If you subscribe to Scientific American, you help ensure that our coverage is centered on meaningful research and discovery; that we have the resources to report on the decisions that threaten labs across the U.S.; and that we support both budding and working scientists at a time when the value of science itself too often goes unrecognized.

In return, you get essential news, captivating podcasts, brilliant infographics, can't-miss newsletters, must-watch videos, challenging games, and the science world's best writing and reporting. You can even gift someone a subscription.

There has never been a more important time for us to stand up and show why science matters. I hope you’ll support us in that mission.

Thank you,

David M. Ewalt, Editor in Chief, Scientific American