Trade and Trauma Along the Silk Road, the Evidence from the Western Frontier of China and Mongolia (700 BC–420 AD)

Four archaeological sites along the western frontier of China and Mongolia were analyzed for cranial trauma patterns. These patterns were then used to determine levels of violence, who the participants were, and if certain individuals were singled out as specific targets. Two sites, Yingpan and Yanghai, represent agricultural oasis states in the Tarim Basin. Two sites, Nileke and Chandman, represent nomadic pastoralists along the Altai Mountains. Trauma patterns were analyzed for weapon type (blunt, sharp, or high velocity), and cause (interpersonal conflict, warfare, or other). The highest incidence of violent death occurred at Chandman and the lowest at Yingpan. Violence against females was highest in the oasis states with little evidence in the nomadic pastoralists. Yingpan had a specific pattern of trauma among males, females, and juveniles which suggests participation in a contact sport such as polo. Nileke and Chandman had evidence of trepanation, scalping, and facial mutilation. This is probably evidence of extensive warfare and corporal punishment. This study supports historical and artistic documentation of athletic activity, the dangers associated with travel along trade routes, women’s public roles, and the carrying out of government sanctioned punishments.