The hidden truths of Europe's bog corpses have managed to elude our understanding.

In a groundbreaking discovery, a recent study published in the journal Antiquity has shed light on the violent causes of death for some of Europe's ancient bog bodies, challenging previous assumptions and reshaping the conversation around these fascinating finds.

The study, led by a team of international researchers, has confirmed that some individuals like Denmark's Tollund Man, who was found hanged, met a violent end. This revelation could potentially double the number of European bog bodies known to date, with the actual count possibly surpassing the previously estimated 2,000.

Over the centuries, around 2,000 mummified remains and skeletons have been discovered in peatlands across northern Europe. The new research, however, could only conclusively identify the cause of death for 57 individuals. Of these, 45 died violently, six died by suicide, and four were accidental drownings.

The practice of burying bog bodies dates back as far as 5200 B.C., with a flourishing period between 1000 B.C. and A.D. 1500. The study categorizes these finds into three groups: "bog mummies" with preserved skin, soft tissue, and hair, "bog skeletons" whose bones are all that survived, and a third "mixed" group composed of partially mummified and skeletal remains.

The preservation of bog bodies is due to the cold, low-oxygen, and very acidic environment of northern European bogs, combined with the antibiotic properties of Sphagnum moss. This unique combination has allowed the aquatic environment of bogs to preserve clothing made of wool or animal skin, but plant-based textiles like linen do not fare as well over time.

Interestingly, the new research has revealed that some injuries on bog bodies are postmortem damage caused by pressures from the bog or accidental damage during excavation, which were previously seen as evidence of torture or assault. This new understanding could significantly alter our perception of the ritual importance of bog bodies.

As technology advances, scientists will be able to collect more data from these bog bodies, potentially uncovering more secrets about their lives and deaths. The largest number of human remains from European moors, as per Katie Armstrong's article, was found in the Netherlands. Bog bodies have been discovered in various European countries, including Ireland, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, Scandinavia, the Baltic States, Scotland, Iceland, Finland, Sweden, Norway, Estonia, and Lithuania.

The oldest known bog body is Denmark's Koelbjerg Man, who died around 8000 B.C. at the age of 25. Many of these people died between 400 B.C. and A.D. 400. The study includes analysis of more than 250 sites and 1,000 sets of remains, providing a comprehensive look into Europe's ancient past.

This new study is set to revolutionise our understanding of Europe's ancient past, offering a glimpse into the lives and deaths of individuals who lived thousands of years ago.