Introduction

> Human history is deeply rooted in our nomadic past, and the moment we transitioned to settled life marked the dawn of civilization. It's fascinating how "for the vast majority of human existence we’ve been nomadic,” and how this fundamental shift paved the way for cultural development.

> The Aztecs epitomized the duality of beauty and brutality. They had “this grotesque violent bent,” yet simultaneously celebrated art, music, and poetry. The contrast of a king who could command a human sacrifice and then recite his own poetry speaks volumes about the complexity of their culture.

Lost civilizations

> I am fascinated by the discovery of lost civilizations throughout history, like Gobekli Tepe and the potential civilizations hidden in the Amazon through geoglyphs and Mound groups that challenge traditional views of what a civilization looks like.

> The power of water in shaping landscapes and erasing history is a humbling reminder of how ancient civilizations could easily disappear, possibly explaining the absence of evidence for some civilizations like Atlantis, while cities like Akrotiri in Santorini provide glimpses into the advanced nature of past societies despite the challenges of preservation and evidence.

Hunter-gatherers

> The transition from nomadic lifestyles to settled communities was a crucial turning point in human evolution. “Once humans figure out how to stay in a place, I think that’s the initial trigger to what would become civilization.” This shift not only allowed for agricultural innovation but fundamentally changed the way we relate to the land and each other.

> Human motivation leans more towards exploration and innovation rather than just survival under pressures. “I have an explorer’s heart… I do think that we have an innate desire to see what’s on the horizon.” This drive for discovery and communal achievement has been a powerful catalyst in shaping societies throughout history.

First humans in the Americas

> - The migration of the first people to the Americas from Asia during the Ice Age, possibly as early as 60,000 years ago, challenges traditional theories and showcases the impact of DNA research in archaeology. The opening and closing of the land bridge and unique genetic markers in Native American populations provide insights into this ancient journey.

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> - The movement of early humans to the Americas likely involved significant leaps, punctuated by periods of isolation and exploration, shaping the diverse cultures and blood types found across the continents. The oldest human populations in South America, with O blood type and Hao Group D, reflect early colonization and cultural evolution that began tens of thousands of years ago.

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> - When considering the similarities in civilizations across the globe and within the Americas, the guest leans towards the idea of parallel human development globally but acknowledges the presence of shared core values and customs among the diverse cultures in the Americas, hinting at a common distant origin. This nuanced perspective reflects the complexity of tracing human history and cultural evolution.

South America

> South America truly deserves recognition as one of the cradles of civilization. There are ancient sites along the Peruvian coast, like Corral, that date back to around 3200 BCE, featuring huge stone-built pyramids. "It's like I've visited the moon" when I see how remote these areas are; not many people are aware of their significance or how isolated they remain today.

> The intriguing mix of past archaeological oversights and the profound cultural meanings behind these discoveries often gets overlooked. For instance, while many thought sites like Corral weren't worth studying due to a lack of artifacts, the true value lies in understanding the community’s relationship with life and loss. Many infant burials, often misinterpreted as sacrifices, reflect the deep mourning for children in a time when infant mortality was tragically common.

Pyramids

> I find it fascinating that pyramids were built in Peru before Egypt, with motivations varying from structural stability to a desire for lasting legacy. The evolution of pyramids, from trash management in Peru to burial sites in North America, reflects human attachment to place and shared memories of ancestors.

> In South America, the origin of civilizations is complex and ongoing, with the development of larger groups often tied to agriculture and food abundance. Civilization may have started in the Amazon, with early signs of religion and the oldest pottery found in the region, challenging traditional views of where and how civilizations emerged.

Religion

> Religion in ancient South America may have its roots in the Amazon, as "the strongest myths that tie people together" emerged before civilization, particularly with cultures like the Chavín, where the first religious iconography appears around 1800 BCE, blending coastal influences and Amazonian wildlife.

> Contrary to mainstream views of ancient practices being polytheistic, I advocate for a monotheistic thread—centered around a powerful deity I call the Fang deity—who has persisted through various cultures from the Amazon to the Andes, showcasing common traits and motifs in their art over millennia.

> Understanding ancient beliefs requires deciphering art through time, looking for recurring themes and characters, which reveals that the Fang deity embodies dual qualities—fearsome and nurturing—accompanied by curious elements, such as his playful puppy, illustrating a complex yet relatable figure revered across generations.

Shamanism

> The Mochica civilization had a deep connection between rituals, music, and the spirit world. Music played during ceremonies was believed to bring spirits down, essential for Shamanic practices.

> The use of hallucinogens like San Pedro cactus juice in Amazonian rituals allowed individuals to see the spirits that were present, guiding the Shaman in understanding and healing the sick.

Ayahuasca

> Experiencing the Amazon and partaking in the traditional use of ayahuasca left me with profound reflections on shamanism and the roots of civilization. "Hallucinogens opened the mind then like they open the mind now," and I can't help but wonder about their role in shaping the early cultures of the Americas—especially as we consider how they might have been a "critical role in the formation of civilizations."

> Delving into the ancient cultures, I feel both excitement and frustration. The Shavíin were the first to depict religious art, yet as I explore the enigmatic Coral culture, it’s disheartening to find a lack of art to interpret. Without those stories etched in stone, "it's a struggle to understand what those people believed," highlighting just how essential art is in deciphering the beliefs and practices of our ancestors.

Lost City of Z

> The Amazon holds evidence of ancient civilizations like the City of Z and El Dorado, with massive earthworks supporting tens of thousands of people.

> The discovery of Terra Preta, or Black Earth, in the Amazon suggests extensive human activity and farming in the past, shaping the landscape deeply and still influencing present-day communities’ choices on where to settle.

Graham Hancock

> It's important to understand that while Graham Hancock and I are often working with the same set of facts, our interpretations diverge significantly. I appreciate his research and insights, but I firmly believe that the ancient civilizations of the Americas developed independently rather than being seeded by a single, advanced civilization that vanished. The richness and diversity of these cultures should be celebrated rather than simplified into a singular narrative.

> Archaeology thrives on mystery and the unknown; it’s a field where we consistently challenge our theories instead of trying to prove them. Just as every groundbreaking idea begins as something seen as outrageous or absurd, keeping an open mind is essential. After all, some of our greatest discoveries come from daring to think beyond the conventional boundaries of understanding.

Uncontacted tribes

> One fascinating aspect is the existence of uncontacted tribes in the Amazon, frozen in time due to their adaptation to the environment, leading to a lack of pressure for change and a propensity for violence when encountering others.

> Studying uncontacted tribes without actually making contact is a complex challenge, as highlighted by a tragic story in Peru where an attempted friendship led to fatal consequences, emphasizing the delicate balance between our primal nature and our choice to listen to our better angels in avoiding devolution into savagery.

Maya civilization

> The Maya civilization's origins are complex and intertwined with other cultures, particularly the Olmec, suggesting a "co-evolved" relationship rather than a simple linear progression. The dynamic interaction across Mesoamerica, especially in areas like Soconusco, highlights how civilizational development is not isolated but rather a rich tapestry of shared influences.

> The Maya's understanding of the cosmos demonstrated a rigorous mathematical approach. They meticulously observed celestial patterns, revealing that they perceived life itself as cyclical. Their astronomical calculations, such as tracking the movements of Venus and recognizing its significance for warfare, reflect profound insights akin to scientific methodologies.

> It's crucial to elevate the achievements of ancient cultures like the Maya to a status comparable to other great civilizations. Their sophisticated knowledge, encapsulated in their writing systems and hydraulic engineering, showcases an advanced scientific culture that deserves recognition and respect in the broader narrative of human history.

Mayan calendar

> The Maya calendar system is incredibly intricate and interconnected, with different cycles like the Tzolk'in, Haab, and Long Count working together like cogs in a machine. The Tzolk'in, based on a 260-day count, is still followed by millions of Maya people today, guiding their lives and even professions based on their birthdates.

> The Haab, the solar calendar, is recognized universally but interestingly lacks a leap year, causing drift over time. This discrepancy has even led to modern-day issues with agricultural cycles, demonstrating the impact of calendar systems on practical matters.

> The Long Count, with its linear year count and unique base-20 system, presents a mysterious and esoteric view of time. The Maya's concept of multiple creations, as seen through the Long Count, hints at a profound belief in the cyclical and timeless nature of existence, challenging conventional linear views of time.

Flood myths

> The flood myth found across cultures likely stems from the end of the Ice Age, as coastal communities experienced rising sea levels, creating stories about seeking higher ground that have lasted generations. It's fascinating how these events became ingrained in mythology, essentially evolving into a global narrative.

> While the scientific perspective tends to dismiss astrology as unscientific, I believe there's a compelling humility in recognizing that there's a mystery around us that we don't fully understand. It's part of the human experience to wonder about the universe and our place in it, despite my skepticism of astrology's literal interpretations.

> The process of decoding the Maya writing system was a remarkable journey aided by a kind of Rosetta Stone, revealing the complexity of their language. It's perplexing that despite having broken the code, we have 33 mutually unintelligible Maya languages today, which raises questions about how such diversity emerged from a single writing system.

> The transition from a monarchy to a council-based governance in Maya society illustrates a fascinating evolution. At one point, they embraced a democratic council system, highlighting how societies can shift their structures in response to the desires of their people, often driven by discontent with those in power.

> The collapse of Maya civilization isn’t just a tale of decline; it reflects a complex interplay of overpopulation, resource strain, and perhaps a collective yearning for renewal. The Maya's deep connection to cycles might suggest that they intentionally sought transformation when faced with societal challenges, echoing their understanding of the natural rhythms of existence.

Aztecs

> The Aztec origin story traces back to a migration from the north, where they emerged as a formidable group of mercenaries in the 1300s, reshaping the political landscape of the Valley of Mexico with their ruthless tactics and military prowess.

> Unlike other civilizations in Mesoamerica, the Aztecs had a unique relationship with war and violence, embodying an aggressive and brutal approach to conquest. Their worship of a war deity and the symbolic warrior clans of Eagle and Jaguar Warriors set them apart in their military strategies.

> Human sacrifice played a central role in Aztec religious practices, with a specific ritual involving heart extraction as a form of offering to the gods. The Aztecs also had a penchant for cannibalism, using it as a tactic of intimidation and control over other communities, showcasing their blend of fear tactics and actual warfare to expand their influence rapidly.

Inca Empire

> The Inca Empire was built on a foundation of community and collaboration, allowing them to flourish and provide for their subjects, with architectural advancements and food security creating a society that could have thrived for centuries.

> Moving beyond conquest, the Inca absorbed other peoples into their empire through a process of integration and shared resources, presenting them with choices and offering security, which made the empire feel accessible rather than oppressive.

> Unlike the Aztecs, who ruled through fear and dominance, the Inca revolutionized management and recordkeeping with a sophisticated system using quipus, ensuring effective governance even for a population of over ten million.

> The incredible precision of Inca stonework remains a mystery, leading to experimental theories of using chemical processes like hydrofluoric acid to achieve seamless fits, raising questions about the ingenuity of ancient peoples and their ability to motivate large groups toward monumental achievements.

Early humans in North America

> One highlight I want to emphasize is the fascinating history of the early humans in North America, with the presence of complex societies like the mound builders in regions like the Mississippi and the American southwest. Poverty Point in Northern Louisiana, with its ancient pyramid, stands out as a remarkable example of advanced civilization dating back thousands of years.

> Another key point is the misconception and collective amnesia surrounding the mound builders and Mississippian cities like Cahokia, which flourished with large populations, intricate structures, and a unified culture. Despite their advanced society, the brutal actions of explorers like Hernando de Soto, who engaged in murder and deception, played a destructive role in shaping the history of these civilizations.

Columbus

> The Colombian Exchange dramatically reshaped the world, as it introduced new diets and herd animals to the Americas while unleashing a wave of devastating infectious diseases that led to the tragic loss of 90% of indigenous populations within the first 50 years. The impact of this catastrophic period is profound; not only did it erase a vast expanse of knowledge from the elders who died, but it also left a generation feeling spiritually oppressed, causing a fracture in the transmission of cultural wisdom.

> Today, there's a crucial recognition of the fragmented history we’re grappling with, exemplified by the concept of the “Mississippian Shatter Zone,” as we strive to piece together the rich heritage and religious traditions of the people who once thrived in these regions. I'm inspired by conversations with individuals like the Cherokee man who connects with me over our shared cultural threads, as we're all committed to rediscovering and revitalizing these ancient narratives and wisdom that have been scattered across time.

Vikings

> The Vikings tried to colonize North America but were met with strong resistance from Native American cultures like the Dorset and the Mississippian tribes, who kicked their asses. Even Leif Ericson's brother Thor was killed by Native Americans. It wasn't a fair fight due to the tragic impact of diseases brought by Europeans, like the Spanish and Portuguese, leading to the deaths of over 100 million people. The story of a Spanish priest unknowingly spreading disease while trying to save people in the Amazon illustrates the true tragedy behind the devastation caused by epidemics in history. A poignant reminder of how infections and diseases operate outside of normal human terms, ultimately leading to widespread devastation and loss.

Aliens

> The complexity of DNA might suggest external influences, as even Watson speculated, “our DNA was somehow seated from outside of our planet,” raising intriguing questions about life’s origins and the possibilities of extraterrestrial nudges in our evolution.

> The notion of aliens visiting us is fascinating but perhaps overly self-important; after all, “aliens came across the universe and... showed them how to move big rocks?” It just doesn't add up—if they were here, wouldn't we expect gifts of greater significance?

Earth in 10,000 years

> In the next 10,000 years, Earth may become more automated or face a grim future due to our technological advancements. "I think it will be a lot more automated or it'll be a smoldering pile...that possibility that we've really opened Pandora's Box...technology is improving and becoming more advanced rapidly."

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> Human innovation thrives under pressure, with challenges like climate change requiring us to adapt technologically. "I think the greatest capacity of humans is our ability to innovate...mother necessity is the mother of invention...we need to start making technologies that address what's about to happen and adapt instead of pretending we can make it go away."

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> Interpreting ancient civilizations requires stepping out of cultural assumptions and understanding their mindset. Humor, puns, and subtext in artifacts reveal the humanity of these civilizations. "One of my teachers told me to stop thinking like a Western European...I try to step out of my cultural assumptions...just clever turn of speech...that's human nature, does not change."

Hope for the future

> Humanity's resilience gives me hope. Throughout history, there have been ups and downs, but no matter how low we go, we always rise and adapt. "Humans find a way," and our cyclical nature reminds us that life progresses through both life and death.

> Plus, I'm passionate about reshaping how we learn about history, especially concerning the pre-Columbian civilizations in the Americas. There's a "group amnesia" about the rich cultures that existed before European contact, and I aim to change that so kids grow up understanding the full, vibrant history of this land.