Recent Archaeological Finds
Archaeological digs are constantly bringing new information to the forefront about Mesoamerican civilizations. For example, tobacco was found in a Mayan container dating back to 700 AD (which is shown below). Tobacco was a very important crop in Native American society, yet historians did not know the origins of it, because of this find we now know that it dated back to the Mayans.
In addition, forty new cave drawings were recently found in northeastern Guanajuato, Mexico. Most of the drawings date back to the 1-5 century AD. This find was led by Carlos Viramontes, and finally discovered after four seasons of research in the area.
Other recent discoveries include, but are not limited to:
Thanks to archaeological finds, we know more about the lives of the people who roamed the earth long before us. This information allows modern day society to continue to build onto our knowledge, and keep improving our way of life.
Other recent discoveries include, but are not limited to:
- (May 10, 2011) While scientist were examining the area the Mayans used for maritime trade, they found a steep pyramid. It appeared the pyramid had been damaged from hurricanes over the years, but still towered over 53 feet tall. The scientists believe that the top of the pyramid was used as lookout for approaching and departing canoes.
- (February 3, 2011) A creepier find was discovered in a construction site in Tula, Mexico. The remains of two dozen children killed in a mass sacrifices was found in a tomb. The find brought new information about the ancient Toltec civilization, and caused more debate to the ritualistic killings in Mesoamerica. The sacrifice was believed to have happened between 950 and 1150 A.D. The children, between the ages of 5-15, were believed to be sacrificed to the rain god, Tlaloc.
Thanks to archaeological finds, we know more about the lives of the people who roamed the earth long before us. This information allows modern day society to continue to build onto our knowledge, and keep improving our way of life.