Women’s touch?

Re “Scientists see something royal in Stonehenge bones,” May 30

I am interested in the story not revealed in your article on the ancient remains found beneath Stonehenge. The Times writes, “The findings provide the first substantive evidence that a line of kings ruled at least the lower portion of England during this early period, exerting enough power to mobilize the manpower necessary to move the massive stones.”

What evidence did the archaeologists find that suggested it was men who ruled the dynasty? Although the evidence may substantiate this case, the article does not.

Similarly, what archaeological evidence was there that identifies only “manpower” as responsible for moving the stones?

Although the writer may not have intended a gender-specific source of labor, the word choice suggests that men established this wondrous construction. Is it not possible that women and children played some role in the movement and arrangement of the stones?

This article may promote assumptions about ancient political, economic and religious systems based on ancient legends and familiar histories -- but not necessarily tied to scientific evidence.

Christine Mallon

Hanson

Long Beach