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Skeleton of early man found at Goughs Cave, Cheddar Gorge
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Skeleton of early man found at Goughs Cave, Cheddar Gorge
Skeleton of early man found at Goughs Cave, Cheddar Gorge, Somerset. In 1903 the remains of a human male, since named Cheddar Man, were found a short distance inside Goughs Cave. He is Britains oldest complete human skeleton, having been dated to approximately 7, 150 years BCE. There is a suggestion that the man died a violent death, perhaps related to cannibalism, although this has not been proven. Date: circa 1920s
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© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Anthropology Cave Cheddar Complete Found Gorge Human Magdalenian Oldest Prehistoric Prehistory Sites Skeleton Skeletons
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In this evocative photograph, the skeletal remains of Cheddar Man, Britain's oldest complete human skeleton, lie in a dimly lit chamber of Goughs Cave in Cheddar Gorge, Somerset. Discovered in 1903, this ancient individual is believed to have lived around 7,150 years Before the Common Era (BCE), making him a fascinating window into prehistoric times. The Magdalenian site of Goughs Cave has yielded numerous important discoveries, including flint tools and animal bones, providing valuable insights into the lifestyle and diet of early humans. The remains of Cheddar Man, however, offer a more personal glimpse into the past. His skeleton, carefully arranged on a bed of straw for the photograph, reveals a robust and well-preserved frame, despite the passage of millennia. The circumstances of Cheddar Man's death remain a subject of ongoing debate among anthropologists and archaeologists. Some theories suggest that he may have met a violent end, possibly related to cannibalism, due to the presence of cut marks on his bones. However, these claims have not been definitively proven, and the true cause of his demise remains a mystery. Despite the uncertainties surrounding his death, the discovery of Cheddar Man has significantly advanced our understanding of prehistory. His well-preserved remains offer a tangible connection to our distant past, reminding us of the rich and complex history that lies hidden within the earth. This photograph, taken in the 1920s, captures the awe and wonder that continues to surround the enigmatic figure of Cheddar Man and the secrets of Goughs Cave.
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