DNA reveals a society organised around women in pre-Roman Britain
New Scientist · 2026-08-13
New genetic analysis of prehistoric remains in Britain suggests a society potentially organized around women before the Roman conquest. DNA evidence from a Celtic tribe indicates female empowerment might have been a defining characteristic of these pre-Roman British communities. This challenges previous understandings of power structures in ancient Britain, hinting at a social organization where women held significant influence or authority. The findings offer new insights into the complex social dynamics of the period, predating the more commonly studied Roman impact.