Cannibalism

Cannibalism is usually defined as the eating of human flesh by other humans (though it can also refer to any species that prey on their own kind). The word originates with the Carib Indians of the West Indies. There have been cases of cannibalism in extreme circumstances in modern times (i.e. the Donner Party), but most mentions are little more than propaganda intended to insult and inflame sensibilities. However, it is believed that in remote parts of New Guinea cannibalism is still practiced.

Archaeologists have found evidence that suggests cannibalism was a way of life for many pre-modern societies in the Americas, Africa, the Pacific Islands, and the West Indies. When Daniel Defore wrote Robinson Crusoe, it's very likely his fictional hero's adventures fighting the local cannibals were inspired by real tribes that existed in the area at that time.

When the Conquistadors ventured into the new world, they witnessed the Aztecs sacrificing human victims to their gods, after which the bodies were eaten by their priests.

Archaeologists believe most instances of cannibalism had to do with practicing rituals in accordance with religious beliefs. Among some peoples, head hunting may have evolved from cannibalism. Parts of the body were consumed in order to gain power over the fallen.

A few archaeologists think cannibalism may have resulted due to protein shortages in the areas. For instance, the Aztecs had no livestock.

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