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Where did red hair originally come from?

Published in Genetics of Hair 1 min read

Red hair originally came from Central Asia, specifically the grasslands of the region.

According to Jacky Colliss Harvey's book, Red: A Natural History of the Redhead, the recessive gene responsible for red hair is estimated to have first appeared approximately 50,000 years ago in early modern humans in Central Asia. This means that the genetic mutation that leads to red hair is thought to have originated in this specific geographical location.

Here's a breakdown:

  • Location: The grasslands of Central Asia.
  • Time: Approximately 50,000 years ago.
  • Cause: A recessive genetic mutation.
  • Source: As explained by Jacky Colliss Harvey.
Feature Description
Origin Central Asia
Timeframe 50,000 years ago
Genetic Basis Recessive gene mutation
Source Red: A Natural History of the Redhead, Jacky Colliss Harvey

Therefore, the scientific consensus is that the root of red hair can be traced back to the ancient people of Central Asia.

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