Opinion: A grayer United States

We may be familiar with a general outline of the history of the human species on our planet. Most of us agree with the current theory of evolution, though others challenge the science.

Whatever the case, forensic examination of the bones of our distant ancestors reveals that, on average, they did not live long lives.

During the thousands of years,when they were mainly hunters and gatherers, women conceived very early, and most of their babies died. Many of the women died during childbirth. And we know that it’s unlikely that any of these ancestors, regardless of sex, lived long enough to see their grandchildren.