There are two very different theories regarding the origin of the Australian Aborigine. One is based on DNA testing and cultural similarities. DNA studies suggest that the Aborigines are related to African people who migrated from Africa over a land bridge that joined Australia to New Guinea. There is evidence from Saharan cave paintings that the famous Australian boomerang was used for hunting by Africans about 20,000 years ago. Another indicator of African origin is the similarities between Aboriginal languages and several African languages.
The second theory of the origin of the Australian Aborigine comes from the belief systems of the Aborigines themselves. They believe they are descendants of the animals and humans who inhabited Australia during the creation period 40,000 years ago. The land is their Mother and the same spirits who created the land, waters, plants and animals created their ancestors. Aboriginal Dream stories speak of people who have always been in Australia and in fact came from the land. Ancient cave paintings support the existence of very early human life in Australia.
So what is the origin of the Australian Aborigine? It remains a global mystery.
Photo: barkingmagpie
Other posts about the Aborigines:
Aboriginal Pride: Topsy Smith and Walter Smith
Topsy Smith: Australian Pioneer Woman
Uluru and the Anangu Tribe
Australia: The Mystery of the Arrerente People
Sounds like a Navaho creation myth. Or a biblical one for that matter. Man made from earth. Adama = earth, Adam the first human creature.
I’ll take the DNA theory, but all life is related DNA wise too – all carbon based life forms anyway. So maybe they are both right.
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By: deepercolors on November 8, 2010
at 12:07 am
Interesting information about the meaning of Adama.
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By: nancycurteman on December 6, 2010
at 4:27 pm
Interesting information, Nancy. I think I’d go with the DNA. It makes more sense to me. Blessings…
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By: Carol Ann Hoel on November 8, 2010
at 12:44 pm
Why does it matter what we think, if the Aborigine people believe they come from the land , then so be it. The fact remains they are the indigenous people of Australia, and should be respected for their beliefs.
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By: Howard Burgoyne on August 26, 2012
at 7:09 am
I agree with you completely. People should be respected for their beliefs. Many people have an interest in their origins. I know I do. That’s what this post is about.
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By: nancycurteman on August 26, 2012
at 3:00 pm