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Blake, Wm. Elegy Written in a Country Church-Yard. 1797.

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New research reveals children with Down Syndrome were recognized and valued in ancient communities dating back 5,000 years. The study is the first to systematically examine uncommon genetic conditions throughout history.

The oldest recorded case was found in Spain, dating back to the Iron Age. Special burial practices, including the placement of valuable items with the remains, indicate these individuals were valued members of their societies and treated with “care and appreciation.”

Unlike today, where individuals with Down Syndrome can live long lives with medical support, these ancient individuals died young.

“These burials seem to show us that these individuals were cared for and appreciated as part of their ancient societies,” said Dr. Adam Rohrlach of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology.