The Tarim Basin Mummies
1800–200 BCE
Over 200 naturally mummified human remains discovered in the Tarim Basin of western China date to 1800–200 BCE and display distinctly non-East Asian features: red, blonde, and brown hair; tall stature; Caucasian facial features; and clothing woven in a Celtic-style plaid pattern. DNA analysis confirms they were of Western Eurasian origin — raising profound questions about ancient migration and contact between East and West.