Ancient Civilizations
Ancient civilizations are critical to understanding the development of human societies and lay the groundwork for modern cultures. These foundational societies emerged across various regions, including Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Mesoamerica, characterized by the establishment of advanced cities, specialized labor forces, and complex institutions. Agricultural advancements, particularly the Neolithic Revolution, enabled food surpluses that supported urban growth and allowed for social diversification. Key features of these civilizations included record-keeping systems like cuneiform and hieroglyphs, monumental architecture such as ziggurats and pyramids, and intricate social hierarchies that collectively shaped the world as we know it. In recent years, the exploration of ancient civilizations has gained traction with remarkable archaeological discoveries redefining our understanding of early societies. Recent finds in regions like northern Saudi Arabia and ongoing excavations in the Maya region illustrate the sophistication and adaptability of ancient peoples, highlighting artistic traditions and complex social structures previously unrecognized. These insights not only enhance our knowledge of prominent "Cradles of Civilization" such as Mesopotamia and Egypt but also elevate the significance of areas once viewed as peripheral. By examining the history of ancient civilizations, scholars can unveil the rich tapestry of human heritage, providing valuable lessons and foundational knowledge that continue to impact contemporary art, governance, and culture.
What does the 1800s map claim about Atlantis?
The 1800s map challenges Atlantis's mythical status by purportedly showing its exact location and matching all the characteristics associated with the legendary land. Despite being created in the late 19th century, the map is described as well-made and accurate in its depiction of the current world, while simultaneously claiming that Atlantis existed approximately one million years ago. The map presents Atlantis not as fiction but as a real place that once existed, alongside other extraordinary claims that Johnny Harris describes as "crazy stuff."
Watch clip answer (00:34m)
Johnny Harris
00:02 - 00:36
Why would William Scott Elliot create a pseudoscientific story about Atlantis?
Johnny Harris theorizes that Elliot genuinely believed in his Atlantis narrative, rather than creating it for profit or to dupe people. Like many of us, Elliot constructed a worldview that helped explain mysteries he couldn't understand, using both rational and spiritual means to make sense of the world. Harris suggests that Elliot's map of Atlantis represents a common human tendency to create explanatory frameworks, though his particular creation combined pseudoscience with spiritual revelations while appearing scientific. This reflects how people often blend different knowledge systems to construct meaningful narratives about our past.
Watch clip answer (01:15m)
Johnny Harris
14:07 - 15:23