Ancient DNA study suggests first Americans arrived during Last Glacial Maximum
Researchers at the University of Kansas reviewed genetic and archaeological data to determine when people first reached the Americas on October 5, 2026.
Three migration models evaluated
The team examined three main theories regarding the timing of the initial arrival. These scenarios propose entry before, during, or after the Last Glacial Maximum. Scientists compared genetic split times with archaeological site evidence and climate conditions.
Ice sheets blocked travel routes
Large ice sheets covered much of North America during the coldest period of the last ice age. This physical barrier influenced earlier debates about when populations could have crossed into the continent. The analysis tested how well each timeline fits these environmental constraints.
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