Genomic formation of lower Yellow River populations in the Han dynasty

AI interpretationAI-generated

Western Han Shandong genomes reveal genetic continuity with Yellow River millet farmers.

Researchers sequenced 14 ancient genomes from the Wenshaobei site in Shandong, dating to the Western Han dynasty. These people were genetically distinct from early Neolithic Shandong hunter-gatherers but closely related to Middle Neolithic to Iron Age populations from the middle and lower Yellow River Basin. This suggests strong continuity with millet-farming societies, with only minor influence from southern rice farmers. Modern Shandong Han share this core ancestry but show slight differences, hinting at later migrations.

• Wenshaobei people were genetically different from early Neolithic Shandong hunter-gatherers.
• They were closely related to Middle Neolithic to Iron Age Yellow River Basin populations, showing strong continuity with millet farmers.
• Modern Shandong Han share a core genetic foundation with ancient Wenshaobei but have subtle differences from recent admixture.

Sample interpretation

The study analyzed 41 samples from the Wenshaobei site. Y-chromosome haplogroups were resolved for 14 males, with Q-F1626 and C-Y178875 each appearing twice, and several O and N lineages once. Mitochondrial DNA was diverse: Y1b1 was most common (5 samples), followed by D4b2b, F2f, N9a1, and R11a. These lineages reflect a mix of northern and southern East Asian ancestries, consistent with the main genetic profile.

For genealogy enthusiasts

For ancestry enthusiasts, this confirms that Western Han Shandong people were direct descendants of Yellow River millet farmers, not local hunter-gatherers. Modern Shandong Han largely continue this legacy, but later migrations added minor southern and other influences. This helps trace your deep roots if you have Shandong ancestry.