The Neolithic or Formative Period in the New World drastically transformed the mode of production in human societies with the domestication of plants and animals. It impacted the way of life and social relations among individuals in permanent farming villages. Moreover, the emergence of elites and social inequality fostered interpersonal and inter- and intra-group violence associated with the defense of resources, socio-economic investments, and other cultural concerns. This study evaluated violence among the first horticulturalists in the Atacama Desert in northern Chile during the Neolithic transition between 1000 BCE – 600 CE. Furthermore, it analyzed trauma caused by interpersonal violence using a sample of 194 individuals. Strontium isotopic composition was examined to determine whether violence was local or among foreign parties. Settlement patterns, weapons, and rock art also were evaluated to assess expressions of violence. Skeletal and soft tissues presented the most direct evidence for violence. About 21% (n = 40) of adult individuals, particularly men, showed trauma compatible with interpersonal violence, with 50% (n = 20) of trauma appearing fatal. The findings suggested that violence was between local groups and that social and ecological constraints likely triggered violence within local communities.

新世界的新石器时代或形成时期，通过驯化植物和动物，彻底改变了人类社会的生产方式。它影响了永久性农村中个体之间的生活方式和社会关系。此外，精英的出现和社会不平等加剧了与保护资源、社会经济投资和其他文化问题相关的人际、群体间和群体内暴力。本研究评估了公元前 1000 年至公元 600 年新石器时代过渡期间智利北部阿塔卡马沙漠第一批园艺家之间的暴力行为。此外，它使用 194 个人的样本分析了人际暴力造成的创伤。检查锶同位素组成以确定暴力是本地的还是外国的。还评估了定居点模式、武器和岩画，以评估暴力的表现。骨骼和软组织是暴力的最直接证据。大约 21% (n = 40) 的成年个体，尤其是男性，表现出与人际暴力相容的创伤，其中 50% (n = 20) 的创伤似乎是致命的。调查结果表明，暴力发生在当地群体之间，社会和生态限制可能引发当地社区内部的暴力。