DNA evidence proves "male" Viking warrior actually a woman

The skeleton of a Viking originally believed to be a man is now being classified as high-ranking female warrior after examining DNA samples taken from her arm and teeth.

Researchers believed the skeleton had been male since it was discovered in Sweden during the 1880s — mostly based on assumptions, The Independent reports.

Since she was buried with arrows, a sword, two horses and other materials designating the skeleton as a "professional warrior," researchers never considered they were stumbling upon the first female warrior of its kind.

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