Assessment Questions 7.9

The abundance of geographical, archaeological, and genetic evidence overwhelmingly supports the hypothesis that human settlement in the New World occurred in the north, particularly through northeastern Asia and northwestern North America. This alignment is reinforced by explorers like Giovanni da Verrazzano, who noted physical resemblances between the natives of the New World and Asians. The discovery of the Bering Strait, only about 85 km (53 mi) wide, by Russian traders in 1732 further substantiated the proximity between Asia and America.

During the Pleistocene, when sea levels were significantly lower, a broad land connection known as Beringia emerged, providing a feasible pathway for humans to walk from northeast Asia to northwest North America. The term "Bering Land Bridge" is somewhat misleading, as it represents a substantial expanse of dry land, approximately 1,800 km (1,100 mi) from north to south and covering more than 2 million km2 (770,000 mi2). The geological and archaeological evidence from this region supports the conclusion that Beringia was a crucial corridor for the initial human migration into the New World.

Archaeological findings, along with genetic studies, provide additional support. Numerous artifacts and ancient sites have been discovered in both northeast Asia and northwest North America, showcasing a cultural continuity and shared ancestry. Additionally, genetic analyses of Native American populations reveal connections with Asian populations, reinforcing the idea of a migration across Beringia. The recognition of the proximity between Asia and North America by early explorers further contributed to this theory, emphasizing the similarities observed in the people's physical features and hair texture. The abundant and diverse evidence converges to establish Beringia as the likely route for the human settlement of the New World.

The hypothesis that the first human migration into the Pacific islands was a deliberate and planned exploration, rather than accidental landfalls, is supported by several key factors. First, the vastness of the Pacific Ocean presented a significant challenge, and successful navigation required considerable skill and knowledge of seafaring. The intentional geographic expansion is evident from the fact that explorers brought with them not only people but also plants and animals necessary for establishing viable settlements.

Anthropologist John Moore's computer simulations highlight the deliberate nature of colonization, indicating that successful settlements required a minimum number of men and women in the founding group. The presence of Lapita pottery, a common cultural complex, across Polynesia, further reinforces the idea of intentional exploration and colonization. The Lapita culture, marked by specific pottery styles, maritime adaptations, agriculture, and other shared practices, serves as evidence of deliberate and planned movement across the Pacific islands.