In a groundbreaking study, researchers have obtained genomic data from the remains of 15 Rapa Nui (Easter Island) natives who lived prior to European contact, offering valuable insights into the island's ancient population. The results, which were published in a recent scientific journal, describe a slow and steady growth of the population without any evidence of an ecological collapse that could have limited their numbers.

Previous debates surrounding the origins of the Rapa Nui people have been put to rest by the newly obtained genome sequences. Contrary to earlier theories suggesting migration from South America, the data now confirms that the island's original inhabitants were part of the Polynesian expansion across the Pacific.

The remains analyzed in this study were not recently discovered on Rapa Nui but were rather kept at the Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle in France. Despite this, the researchers collaborated extensively with the indigenous people of Rapa Nui and gained their cooperation in the project. Representatives from the Rapanui community, the Comisión de Desarrollo Rapa Nui, and the Comisión Asesora de Monumentos Nacionales were actively involved in the research, aligning with the goal of conducting studies with respect for indigenous rights and concerns.

The primary objective of the study was to confirm the origin of the remains. Using genomic comparisons with modern populations, it was unequivocally established that all 15 genomes had a Polynesian origin and were closely related to present-day residents of Rapa Nui. The researchers highlight how this confirmation supports the ongoing efforts of the Rapa Nui Repatriation Program (Ka Haka Hoki Mai Te Mana Tupuna) to repatriate ancestral remains.

Carbon dating was attempted to determine the age of the remains, but the results were inconclusive. Some dates obtained were potentially after the collection of the remains, as museum records indicated that they were from the 1800s - a period well after European contact and the introduction of non-Polynesian DNA through diseases. However, the genetic data clearly indicates that the individuals were born prior to European arrival, providing valuable insights into the period between Rapa Nui's settlement and the influence of colonial powers.

Interestingly, the analysis revealed that approximately 10 percent of the indigenous Rapa Nui genomes had origins in a Native American population. This percentage is the highest seen among any Polynesian population, even surpassing those populations that have shown signs of Native American contact prior to European arrival. Further studies and comparisons with populations worldwide revealed that the group most closely related to the Native American ancestry in Rapa Nui resides in the central Andes region of South America, contradicting previous assumptions that the contact was with populations further north.

Overall, this groundbreaking study not only confirms the Polynesian origin of the Rapa Nui people but also uncovers the intriguing genetic connection to a Native American population. The research showcases a model collaboration between scientists and indigenous communities, setting an important precedent for future studies on the island. By unraveling the mysteries of Easter Island's ancient past, scientists hope to gain a deeper understanding of the population's experiences during the crucial period before European colonization.