Shanidar Cave discovery reveals Neanderthal violence and compassion

Archaeologists excavating Shanidar Cave in the Kurdistan region of Iraq have discovered the remains of a Neanderthal, designated Shanidar A, that suggest both interpersonal violence and social compassion existed 75,000 years ago.

The individual, an adult approximately 45 years old, possessed a 15-millimeter circular perforation in the left scapula. Analysis using micro-computed tomography indicates the wound was caused by a sharpened wooden spear rather than a stone tool. The weapon's trajectory suggests it entered the chest, likely piercing the lungs and major arteries, which would have caused rapid death.

While researchers noted the possibility of a hunting accident involving large game, the evidence points toward deliberate aggression. Conversely, the skeleton also shows signs of a previous, non-fatal facial injury that likely required long-term care, providing evidence that Neanderthals practiced compassion and cared for their injured members.