They did not. They were a healthy species.  However, there were some who had holes in their bones similar to those humans who have Gout. The earliest findings of RA in humans was actually in North America in an area know today as Tennessee. Bones found to belong to Native Americans who lived about 6500 years ago or in 4500 BC were authenticated to have RA.  Today Native Americans have the highest incidence of RA in any ethnic group.  Some argue that RA is a new disease but it seems they are ignoring all the evidence compiled by researchers. RA was also found to be present in Egyptian mummies. We can feel fortunate that we have our RA in the present.  Even  in the 20th century it was a tough disease to have.  Aspirin was consumed in large doses as was Prednisone in the latter part of the century.  Prednisone was considered a miracle drug and was used in high doses.  Today it is helpful tool in our war chest but in much lower doses. …