36. Cannibalism in Jamestown: Colonists Ate a 14-Year-Old Girl's Brain

http://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2013/05/cannibalism-in-jamestown-colonists-ate-a-14-year-old-girls-brain/275490/

      In James Hablin's article, "Cannibalism in Jamestown: Colonists Ate a 14-Year-Old Girl's Brain," he proves the existence of cannibalism at the 17th century. He starts out the article by quoting a passage from Captain John Smith, a person present during this time. Hablin reveals that Jane, the name of the 14 year old girl who was eaten, is the first physical evidence other than written articles from the past. The early 17th century was a period of extreme droughts and starvation. People turned to all sorts of food, eventually getting to cannibalism. Hablin also reveals a full forensics of the skull and the discoveries made from it. He ends his article by quoting an archaeologist which stated that Jane was not the only victim. 

     The author's purpose in writing this article is to inform people about the discovery of Jane. Throughout his article, Hablin used many reliable sources and quotes. He quotes the colonists, professors, and archaeologists. He also refers to museums and organizations which study about these historical events. Hablin adds more credibility with his photos of the skull. His audience was mostly people interested in history, and the events which happened in the early America. The author does a good job in presenting his evidences and reveal his purpose to the audience, which is to inform them about the new discovery which verifies the existence of cannibalism.