I have a mtDNA sample from a 5300 year old individual excavated on the California coast. It was determined to have Haplogroup A (the basal haplotype).
That same haplotype is still present in living descendants.
Just think what will be learned in the near future! This method of mtDNA analysis has been common for only about 15 years or so, with most studies coming from just the past few years.
Should get these results submitted for publication within the next few weeks (still waiting for one more determination).
Where is the 'homeland' of the haplotype A ?