In Search of Human Evolution

Abstract

This volume focuses on methods of field investigations on the theory of evolution set in diverse environments. It also discusses the necessary preparation, sources of funds, and training required to conduct fieldwork in various countries. Populations investigated include (1) Siberian and Alaskan indigenous people; (2) Tlaxcaltecan populations of Mexico transplanted to adjoining valleys; (3) Mennonite migrants from Europe to the Midwestern United States; (4) origins of Irish Tinkers; (5) Basque populations of Spain; and (6) lymphoma in baboons of Sukhumi. Genetic markers were utilized to reconstruct the genetic structure of these populations and the micro-differentiation of transplanted groups over time periods of several hundred years. Genetic markers included blood groups, proteins, immunoglobulins, HLA and sequences, and uniparental DNA markers, such as maternal mtDNA and paternal NRY, autosomal short tandem repeats and single nucleotide polymorphisms. Results of these analyses indicate that (1) the Basque populations were descendants of migrants from the Middle East; (2) Tinkers are Irish who were displaced by the potato famine and political conditions; and (3) Black Caribs (Garifuna) represent an evolutionary success story forming 54 villages along the coast of Central America, from Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Methodology associated with bio-demography was utilized to develop testable hypotheses in Tiszahat, Hungary, and Valle Maira, Italy. This volume demonstrates that theories of evolution can be tested using DNA markers.