
Racial attribution in skeletal remains
Racial attribution in skeletal remains involves analyzing specific physical traits in bones that are historically associated with different populations. For example, skull features like the shape of the nasal aperture or the jawline can suggest ancestral origins. However, these traits vary widely within populations, and many overlap among groups, making precise identification difficult. Modern science emphasizes that race is a social construct, so skeletal analysis can suggest regional ancestry but does not determine individual racial identity. It provides clues about geographical heritage rather than definitive racial classification.