Importance Score: 35 / 100 🔵
Debate on Phoenician Influence on Ancient Carthage Population
Scholars continue to debate the extent of Phoenician influence on the demographics of ancient Carthage. According to Dr. Hoyos, while Phoenicians undoubtedly traveled to and from Carthage, and some likely relocated and started families over its six or seven centuries of Punic existence, they represented only a small fraction of the overall population. He emphasized that there is no evidence suggesting a consistent influx of Phoenician women to marry male colonists.
Intermarriage and Partnerships in Carthaginian Society
Dr. Hoyos suggests that from the beginning, both male and female settlers found partners in the surrounding areas. He noted instances of intermarriage between Carthaginian nobles—including two of Hannibal’s sisters—and princes of the Numidian peoples west of Carthaginian territory.
Demographic Shifts and Cultural Changes in Carthage
The new findings support existing theories and highlight a demographic transition around the sixth century B.C. During this period, Carthaginians adopted a new dialect known as Punic, and cremation was largely replaced by interment as the primary burial practice.
The Impact of Cultural Changes on Population
These shifts, according to Dr. Reich, demonstrate that the cultural changes were accompanied by a significant shift in the population. Future research is needed to comprehend the nature of these changes, which will require integrating genetic, archaeological, and historical evidence.
Limitations of the Study
Eve MacDonald, a historian at Cardiff University and author of “Carthage: A New History of an Ancient Empire,” noted that the relatively small sample size of the current study makes it hard to draw broad generalizations. Nevertheless, she said the paper shows how crucial it is to broaden our understanding of the ancient worlds that goes beyond simplistic narratives of “us and them,” or ‘Roman and Carthaginian’.
Carthaginian Identity: More Than Just Genes
Dr. MacDonald underscored that the results suggest that being Carthaginian was more complex than just a specific genetic marker. The results highlight the intricacy of the city-state and its inhabitants. She concluded that identity extends beyond genetics and incorporates links to Carthage, its myths, narratives, cultures, and familial connections.