Chimpanzees are violent and warlike by nature, according to a new study by scientists from the University of Minnesota.

Some researchers suggest chimpanzees are driven to violent acts whenever human interference or pressure is imminent such as clear cutting forests or trying to feed wild chimps with bananas. Others say aggression and violence are inherent in chimpanzees.

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More evidence uncovered by researchers from Minnesota in an intensive study in collaboration with wildlife officials and scientists around Africa reveals why aggression is natural for chimps.

After seven decades of research, a team of biologists captured and documented moments and events in which chimpanzees demonstrated warlike tendencies and violent aggression in their communities over time.

Even without human pressure and influence, researchers discovered that levels of violent behavior were consistent among chimps. For example, Bonobo populations that possess a more peaceful disposition remain less violent even if they come in contact with humans.

Since time immemorial scientists have been interested in studying the behavior of chimps that will link to the evolution of human behavior, said the study's lead author, Michael Wilson.

The study concluded that chimpanzees are indeed violent by nature and even resort to gang attacks. But this doesn't clear up whether this type of aggressive behavior developed continuously in chimps and in humans separately.

Wilson added that the common ancestor of chimps and humans could have probably been violent by nature five to seven million years ago. 

Humans and chimpanzees share a lot of common behavior and characteristics. Human violence has remained rampant throughout history with wars and conflicts.

Wilson also noted that male chimps share a similar trait as humans: they kill more than females. Males also have an uncanny ability to cooperate to kill.

This study was published in the journal, Nature.

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