Revealing the Origins of Syphilis

Recent research from the Max Planck Institute has uncovered that syphilis originated in the Americas, not Europe. By analyzing ancient genomes from skeletal remains in Mexico, Chile, Peru, and Argentina, scientists found proof of the pathogen's presence long before Christopher Columbus’s voyages.

This study challenges the long-held belief that Columbus introduced the disease to Europe following his return in the late 15th century. Instead, the findings indicate that indigenous populations in the Americas suffered from early forms of syphilis.

The subsequent colonization by Europeans played a pivotal role in the global spread of this and related diseases. The first significant outbreak in Europe occurred in 1495, resulting in high mortality rates, thus marking syphilis as a significant historical health crisis.

This research not only sheds light on the origins of syphilis but also raises concerns about the potential emergence of more aggressive forms of related diseases in the future.