Anthropology
Physical anthropologists
(study of the skeleton and how it evolved)
Forensic anthropologists
Physical anthropologists who specialize in recovering and examining human skeletal remains where legal
questions are involved (particularly a crime has been committed)
Began in 1939. Used in the 1940’s to identify dead WWII soldiers.
First book wasn’t written until 1979.
Interesting Fact
The first time a forensic anthropologist was called to testify in court involved a case in 1897.
A Chicago murderer turned his victim’s body into sausage leaving behind no body to tie him to the crime.
Luckily, bone fragments were found at the factory and a physical anthropologist was able to identify them as
human remains.
Where do they work?
Usually, Universities and major research facilities (like the Smithsonian). They are usually consulted on a “as
needed” basis by forensic laboratories.
What can you tell from bones?
Age
Sex
Height
Ancestry
Right or left handed
Behavioral information
Medical conditions
Childbirth
Past injuries or accidents
Occasionally:
Time of death
Cause of death
Are these remains human?
About 25% of the time, the remains are actually non-human.
Can be distinguished by size, structure, or under a microscope.
How many individuals are here?
Try to identify the minimum number that must be present.
Duplication of bones is the easiest way
Differences in age, size, structure, and preservation
DNA can be used to confirm
Sex
Much easier once puberty has been reached. Skeletons of children often remain unsexed.
What’s the best bone to use for sex?
The Pelvis
It is much wider in women to allow for childbirth
The sacrum is shorter and wider in a female
The coccyx is more moveable in a female
Pelvic bones are lighter and smoother in a female
Sex
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