# Raman Spectroscopy of Mary Rose Crew’s Collarbones: Discoveries on Handedness and Aging
The **Mary Rose**, the renowned warship of Henry VIII, tragically sank during the **Battle of the Solent** in 1545, leading to the loss of numerous crew members and a plethora of artifacts. After lying on the seabed for over four centuries, the ship was salvaged in 1982, along with the extraordinarily well-preserved remains of 179 crew members. The anaerobic environment of the wreck, shielded by layers of soft sediment, played a crucial role in preserving not only the ship but also the bones of those who met their demise.
In recent developments, these remains have shed light on the life aboard the ship, the crew’s health, and even their physical attributes. A recent study, published in **PLoS ONE**, utilized **Raman spectroscopy** to examine the collarbones of 12 crew members, uncovering fascinating details about their handedness and the progression of their bone aging.
## The Mary Rose: A Brief Overview
The **Mary Rose** was launched in 1510, alongside her sister vessel, the **Peter Pomegranate**, as part of Henry VIII’s initiative to enhance England’s naval strength. The ship served under the king during various conflicts, including wars with France, and underwent a major refurbishment in the 1520s. Unfortunately, her time came to an end in 1545 during the **Battle of the Solent**, where she capsized and submerged, likely due to a mix of overloading, crew mistakes, and a sudden gust of wind.
The wreckage remained preserved until its discovery and recovery in the 20th century. Today, the **Mary Rose Museum** in Portsmouth, England, displays the remnants of the ship alongside thousands of artifacts recovered, providing a fascinating view into Tudor naval life.
## Raman Spectroscopy: A Non-Invasive Method
The recent investigation, carried out by researchers from **Lancaster University** in partnership with the **Mary Rose Museum**, concentrated on the clavicles (collarbones) of 12 crew members. The team employed **Raman spectroscopy**, a non-invasive method that utilizes a laser to stimulate molecules in a sample. The resultant vibrations generate a distinctive biochemical fingerprint, enabling scientists to identify various organic and inorganic materials.
Previously, Raman spectroscopy has been applied to examine the leg bones of some members of the **Mary Rose** crew to uncover indications of bone disease. This study shifted focus to the clavicles, which are essential bones connecting the upper limbs to the torso and often endure significant stress during physical activities.
## Collarbones and Handedness
The clavicle is among the first bones to ossify during gestation, yet it is also one of the last to fully fuse, typically around the ages of 22 to 25. This characteristic makes it an excellent subject for investigating age-related alterations. The researchers assessed the mineral and protein composition of the clavicles, concentrating on phosphate, carbonate, and amine (a principal constituent of collagen).
Their findings indicated that the mineral content of the bones increased with age, while the protein content diminished. Notably, these changes were more evident in the right clavicles compared to the left, implying that most crew members were likely right-handed, as the right clavicles exhibited more pronounced wear and tear, potentially due to the physical demands of their responsibilities.
The inclination towards right-handedness among the crew may also have historical significance. In the Tudor era, left-handedness was frequently linked to witchcraft, leading to social stigma against left-handed individuals. This historical context may clarify why the majority of the crew appeared to favor their right side.
## Implications for Contemporary Science
The insights from this study extend beyond the historical narrative of the **Mary Rose**. Gaining comprehension of how bones transition with aging and physical activity can offer invaluable knowledge regarding contemporary bone health, especially in relation to disorders like **osteoporosis** and **osteoarthritis**. Furthermore, the research underscores the effectiveness of **Raman spectroscopy** as a non-destructive method for studying ancient remains, paving the way for investigating historical populations without harming valuable artifacts.
**Sheona Shankland**, one of the study’s co-authors, shared her enthusiasm regarding the discoveries: “Having grown up captivated by the **Mary Rose**, it has been incredible to engage with these remains. The preservation of the bones and the non-intrusive nature of the technique empower us to gain insights into the lives of these sailors while also enhancing our understanding of the human skeleton, which is pertinent to the contemporary world.”
## Conclusion
The **Mary Rose** remains a vibrant source of intrigue and revelation, providing insights into Tudor naval existence, the physical strains faced by sailors, and the aging process of bones. The application of **Raman spectroscopy** has paved the way for innovative approaches to studying ancient remains, offering a non-invasive method to explore the past.
