Sex and marriage patterns in an ancient empire can be identified by analyzing the DNA of inhabitants from archaeological sites. By extracting and sequencing DNA, scientists can build a genetic timeline that sheds light on mating and marital systems, population movements, and even social structures.
This involves the collection of DNA from bones or teeth found in archaeological sites, which are then cleaned and ground to extract the DNA. The benefit of using DNA is that it can provide more in-depth and accurate information than just studying artifacts or literature.
Inferences can be made from the genetic data about patterns of patrilineal and matrilineal inheritance, which provide insights into societal norms around marriage and kinship. For example, recurring genetic patterns can suggest certain norms, such as whether marriages were typically exogamous (marrying outside a specific group) or endogamous (within a specific group).
High levels of genetic diversity might suggest a society where intermarriage was common, pointing towards a more open society. Conversely, repeated DNA patterns may indicate that marriages were typically within the same lineages or groups, suggesting a more closed society.
Other socioeconomic status information can also be gathered. The presence of certain genes may indicate high status—reflecting phenomena like elite polygamy—as seen in many ancient empires.
In addition, the study can be expanded to include analysis of non-human DNA, such as pathogens, to gain an understanding of diseases present in the population and their impact on the empire.
While these methods provide a wealth of information
