A recent news article reports on findings from a dig in Mesopotamia.The researchers report that skeletal populations indicate a decline in stature and likely overall health at this period in time.This reminds you of another study you have read about, the populations of St.Catherines Island.What could be the reasons for the changes in skeletons?
A)Health and stature declined with a transition to hunting and gathering.
B)Health and stature declined with the adoption of agriculture.
C)Health and stature declined with the Industrial Revolution.
D)Health and stature declined because of an outbreak of an avian virus.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The adoption of agriculture is a known factor that led to a decline in health and stature in many populations due to changes in diet and lifestyle. This is supported by other studies and is a common hypothesis in archaeological research. The other options - hunting and gathering as well as the industrial revolution, are neither relevant to the time period nor supported by evidence. The outbreak of an avian virus is also unlikely to have a significant and widespread impact on skeletal populations.

A Recent News Article Reports on Findings from a Dig