Mysterious foreigner may have ruled ancient Maya kingdom

Bone chemistry suggests one of Copan’s early rulers came from afar

jade bar

ROYAL SIGN  A jade bar found next to a man’s remains at the Maya site of Copan bears a mat design, which denoted he had governing power. An analysis of the man’s teeth suggests he grew up far from Copan.

T.D. Price

Imported royalty may have sparked the rise of an ancient Maya kingdom.