Recent research indicates that extensive silver mining during the Roman era may have significantly increased lead pollution, potentially impacting the population’s intelligence and disease resistance.
An analysis of Arctic ice layers reveals that atmospheric lead concentrations during the peak of the Roman Empire were approximately three times higher than current levels in the United States. This heightened exposure likely had a profound effect on the intelligence of ancient Europeans, particularly in key regions known for coin production, such as Iberia. The implications of this lead exposure could have far-reaching effects on public health and cognitive abilities in ancient societies.
