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The Bizarre Afterlife of King Tut's Mummy

Colt Simmons

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Published in The Shadow King: The Bizarre Afterlife Of King Tut S Mummy

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King Tutankhamun, the boy king of ancient Egypt, has been dead for over 3,000 years. But his mummy has been subjected to a series of bizarre and invasive tests and procedures since its discovery in 1922. These procedures have included X-rays, CT scans, and even DNA testing.

The Shadow King: The Bizarre Afterlife of King Tut's Mummy

by Jo Marchant

4.5 out of 5

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While these tests have provided valuable insights into King Tut's life and death, they have also raised ethical concerns about the treatment of his remains. Some experts argue that the mummy should be left alone, while others believe that the tests are necessary to learn more about ancient Egypt.

X-rays

The first X-rays of King Tut's mummy were taken in 1925. These X-rays revealed that the mummy had a number of injuries, including a broken leg and a fractured skull. The X-rays also showed that the mummy had been embalmed with a variety of materials, including linen, resin, and spices.

X Ray Of King Tut's Mummy The Shadow King: The Bizarre Afterlife Of King Tut S Mummy

CT scans

In 2005, King Tut's mummy was subjected to a series of CT scans. These scans revealed even more details about the mummy's body, including the presence of a dagger embedded in its chest. The CT scans also showed that the mummy had suffered from a number of diseases, including malaria and tuberculosis.

CT Scan Of King Tut's Mummy The Shadow King: The Bizarre Afterlife Of King Tut S Mummy — CT scan of King Tut's mummy, taken in 2005.

DNA testing

In 2010, DNA testing was performed on King Tut's mummy. This testing revealed that he was the son of Akhenaten and Nefertiti. The DNA testing also showed that King Tut had a number of genetic disorders, including a cleft palate and a club foot.

Ethical concerns

The testing of King Tut's mummy has raised a number of ethical concerns. Some experts argue that the mummy should be left alone, as it is a sacred object. Others believe that the tests are necessary to learn more about ancient Egypt. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to continue testing King Tut's mummy is a complex one.

There are a number of factors to consider when making this decision, including the scientific value of the tests, the potential damage to the mummy, and the ethical implications of disturbing a sacred object. It is important to weigh all of these factors carefully before making a decision.

The Shadow King: The Bizarre Afterlife of King Tut's Mummy

by Jo Marchant

4.5 out of 5