A recently-published US peer-reviewed science journal might just end the mystery of what happened to vanished aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart, according to a new analysis.
The first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean disappeared while en route to Howland Island In the middle of the Pacific Ocean. She was attempting to circumnavigate the globe together with her navigator, Fred Noonan, when contact was lost with her Lockheed Model 10-E Electra airplane on July 2nd, 1937.
Much fascination has surrounded her life and achievements to this very day, but what exactly happened to her and her co-pilot remains unclear. One of the theories contends that she might have crash-landed on Nikumaroro, an atoll that’s part of the Phoenix Islands archipelago in the western Pacific Ocean.
The reason that this might have occurred is that the Earhart and Noonan could have missed their intended landing spot, Howland Island, altogether, and kept flying until their airplane’s fuel ran out and crash-landed on Nikumaroro.
If this actually did take place, it’s likely that the pilot and navigator died of dehydration or starvation on the waterless atoll. Bones were found on it in 1940, but researchers dismissed the possibility of them belonging to Earhart in 1941, because they, at the time, were concluded to be a man’s bones.
A new study, however, has contradicted this conclusion. Titled Amelia Earhart and the Nikumaroro Bones, the study was published by the University of Florida and conducted by Professor Richard Jantz from the University of Tennessee.
Back in 1940, a British party that was exploring the island found a human skull, a woman’s shoe and a navigation tool used by Fred Noonan. A bottle of the herbal liqueur, Benedictine, was also found, and Earhart was known to carry it with her.
The party found a total of 13 bones, which were sent for analysis in Fiji, where it was concluded that they belonged to a male. Dr. Jantz contends that this conclusion was wrong, because the study of bones was still in its infancy back when they were analyzed.
He used Fordisc, a modern computer program, to compare the measurements taken in Fiji with Earhart’s height and body stature. The bones themselves have unfortunately since been lost, so they can’t be analyzed in the present day.
In addition, Dr. Jantz and his research team also used historical photographs, as well as Earhart’s pilot’s and driver’s licenses, to determine that her body proportions actually matched the skeletal remains. They concluded that Earhart’s stature was more similar to the Nikumaroro bones than 99% of individuals in a large reference sample.
As a result of these findings, it looks like this is where the famous aviator met her grisly fate (until more proof comes to light to debate the findings with).
Did You Know You're Intelligent If You Have These Traits?
There are certain signs of intelligence that are actually quite subtle. Here are 10 subtle signs that are hallmarks of intelligence.
This Study Shows Where People Need to Be Touched
Touching is vital for human development in children, and it's also vital for the strength of familial and romantic relationships. Learn more here.
Can Probiotics Improve Mental Health? Research Says YES
Studies repeatedly show that probiotics can be a potentially effective treatment for several mental health issues. This is what is currently known on the topic.
Alcohol Linked To More Cancer Types Than Previously Known
A new study found a clear correlation between alcohol consumption and more types of cancer than previously known.
Birds Might Have Conscious Experiences, New Studies Reveal
Two grounbraking studies of birds brain structure reveal that avian and mammal brains are more similar than we thought - birds might even be self consious!
Forget Apples! It's an Egg a Day That Keeps the Doc Away...
According to new research, it could actually be an egg a day that keeps the doctor away.Find out more here!
Marilyn Monroe's 15 Unforgettable Quotes That Resonate
These Marilyn Monroe quotes will change what you think of her.
An In-Depth Look Into Who Princess Diana Truly Was...
A remarkable feature-length documentary that reveals a side of Diana we have never seen before.
From Ages 7 to 93 these People Share Tips on Ageing Gracefully
Watch people of all ages offer words of wisdom to their younger counterparts.
Juggling Legend Kris Kremo Will Leave You in Awe
Get ready to be thrilled by juggling legend Kris Kremo’s captivating performance.
This Soulful Cello Performance Will Give You Goosebumps
Sit back and enjoy this amazing cello performance
11 New English Words That Are Actually USEFUL To Know
The majority of new English words are very short-lived, but these were added to various dictionaries and seem to be quite useful to know
This Amazing Maze Has Taken the Internet By Storm!
Watch this intriguing video which features a maze of marbles and magnets.
These Wonderful Shots Are From Many Special Times Gone By
Nostalgia can be a beautiful thing, and these beautiful black and white images reinforce that notion. Jump back into the past with these shots.
20 Things Most People Think Are the Same, But Aren't!
These words are often mistaken for synonyms, but in reality they are nothing of the sort, because they refer to different things. Learn about 20 of them.,
20 Stunning Photos That'll Bring Happiness to Your Day
without saying anything, here are 20 photos that say a thousand words.
These Native American Achievements Are Truly Outstanding!
Read all about ten of the greatest achievements that the Native Americans made before the arrival of Europeans
WOW! These Men Must Have Nerves of Steel!
Vince Reffet and Noah Bahnson are thrill-seekers who love jumping off mountains. In this breathtaking video, they fly through the Alps.
Museum of the Weird: 15 Fascinating Finds
Historical artifacts don't get weirder than this.
Looking at a 100 Years of High School Fashions...
Here's what high schoolers wore each decade of the 20th century.
10 of the Fiercest Ancient Celtic Gods and Goddesses
Here we look at the most influential ancient gods and goddesses from the ancient Celtic pantheon.
Find Humor & Inspiration in These Douglas Adams Quotes
May you find inspiration and humor in these quotes by Douglas Adams.
Step Back In Time: A Glimpse Into '50s and '60s New York
New York City was a vastly different places in the 1950s and 60s. These black and white photos by Vivian Maier captured it perfectly.
10 of the Most Interesting Popes in History
The papacy has been ongoing ever since the time of St. Peter, but some popes stand out as being more historically significant than others. Take a look.
The Best Shows and Movies on Apple TV+ Right Now
Apple TV+ is full of wonderful movies and shows. Here’s a complete guide.
9 Facts About Ancient Egypt You Probably Didn’t Know
Venture beyond the usual facts about the pyramids and Tutankhamen and learn 9 equally fascinating facts and misconceptions about Ancient Egypt
13 of Napoleon Bonaparte's Most Famous Quotes
In this post, you'll find 13 of the French Emperor's most famous quotes, as well as more biographical information about the famous conqueror as you scroll down.
1950s Debunked: Correcting Misconceptions About the Era
The 1950s may not have been as idyllic as we have been made to believe.
Look Back at These Iconic Royal Wedding Photos
Royal Weddings were always a cause for public celebration and fascination. Here are some of the most iconic royal wedding photos in history.
12 Genius Ancient Chinese Inventions We Use to This Today
In this article, we'll focus on 12 surprising everyday items we all use that got their start many centuries ago in Ancient China...
Discussing 10 of the Most Expensive Divorces in History
Presented are ten of history's most exorbitant divorce settlements, serving as testament to just how expensive these events can truly be.
The Truth Behind These Animal Myths Will Shock You
Here are a list of facts about animals we thought to be true.
A Beautiful Story About True Love and Devotion
This beautiful story gives true credence to the words: "True Love"
I Can’t Get Over These Astonishing Magic Tricks!
Enjoy this magical compilation of astonishing performances by illusionist Darcy Oake.
18 Films That Remind Us How Brutal Winter Can Be
Winter isn’t as cozy as you might think. These cold-weather survival movies will make you long for summer days.
WATCH: This Is One Free Gift That Everybody Yearns For
If there's one thing you can do to provide solace, comfort, and love to someone else, it's by cuddling them. Watch this video for more about wonderful hugging.
The English Samurai: The True History Behind 'Shogun'
In this article, we will look at the TRUE history behind the celebrated book Shogun.
22 Old Photos That Really Make History Come Alive
Looking through these old black and white photos you can really learn a lot about history and the world. These 22 photos generates that mind-blowing spark and teaches you something new.
The Incredible Story of a Boy Surviving 49 Days at Sea!
This Indonesian teenager managed to survive almost 50 days at sea while adrift in a floating wooden hut. Learn all about his amazing story here.
Did You Know How Incredible You Were in Your Youngest Days?
Your baby self was incredible! Here are some facts to back this statement up...
20 Cognitive Biases Ruining Our Decision Making Process
If you find it hard to make a decision, these cognitive stumbling blocks could be what's affecting your behavior.
Learn Something New Today With These Mind-Blowing Facts
These intriguing facts will teach you something new today.
News That Inspires: Positive Stories From Around the World
There are so many good things happening in the world. Here’s a look at some of the most inspiring news updates to brighten your day.
These Naval Battles Changed the Course of History
History has been witness to some momentous naval battles. Here is a look at some of the greatest.
What Does the Color of an Egg Yolk Mean? Find Out Here!
Ever wondered what the color of an egg yolk says about the quality of the egg? If so, then wonder no more...
These Famous Characters Are Based On Real People!
Did you know that certain characters draw heavily on real-life people? Here are 10 iconic characters that were based on people that really existed.
Here Are 10 Feel-Good News Stories That Deliver a Smile
Feeling down? Let these good news stories bring a smile to your face.