DNA analysis of skeletons from a 7th-century cemetery on England's south coast has revealed individuals with west African ancestry, suggesting long-distance migration to early medieval Britain. The findings, published in two studies in the journal Antiquity, examined remains from Updown in Kent and Worth Matravers in Dorset.
Researchers found that one person at each site had a recent ancestor from sub-Saharan west Africa, with genetic affinity to present-day Yoruba, Mende, Mandenka, and Esan groups. Further analysis indicated mixed descent, with each having one paternal grandparent from west Africa.
The Updown grave contained goods such as a pot likely imported from Frankish Gaul and a spoon suggesting Christian or Byzantine connections. This cemetery was part of Kent's royal network, highlighting continental links. In contrast, the Worth Matravers individual was buried with a local limestone anchor alongside a male of British ancestry.
Archaeologists noted that both individuals were buried with typical community members, indicating they were valued locally. “What is fascinating is that this international connection is found in both the east and west of Britain,” said Dr Duncan Sayer of the University of Lancashire. The studies raise questions about long-distance movement and demographic interaction in early medieval England, with Dr Ceiridwen J Edwards of the University of Huddersfield concluding: “Our results emphasise the cosmopolitan nature of England in the early medieval period.”
