Following the excavation, a rigorous scientific process began to confirm the skeleton’s identity. A multidisciplinary team of experts from the University of Leicester and other institutions used cutting-edge methods including osteology, forensic analysis, radiocarbon dating, and DNA testing.

Osteological Analysis

The bones showed multiple injuries consistent with battle wounds, including significant trauma to the skull and pelvis that could explain Richard’s death at Bosworth Field. The most notable physical feature was severe scoliosis, causing one shoulder to be higher than the other—exactly as described in historical accounts and Shakespeare’s portrayal.

Radiocarbon Dating

Radiocarbon dating placed the skeleton’s death in the late 15th century, aligning perfectly with Richard III’s death in 1485.

DNA Analysis

DNA testing was the breakthrough that sealed the identification. The team extracted mitochondrial DNA from the skeleton’s bones and compared it to living descendants of Richard’s sister, Anne of York. The mitochondrial DNA matched, providing strong genetic evidence that the remains were indeed those of Richard III.

This genetic verification was crucial because it corroborated the historical and archaeological evidence. It also addressed earlier skepticism that the skeleton might belong to another individual from the same era. shutdown123