#ancienthistory

[ancienthistoryart]

The ancient theatre of Epidavros, Peloponnese, Greece. 4th c.BC.

[malenastefano]

Jewish artifacts found at an excavation site in Tayma, Saudi Arabia. Tayma was a Jewish oasis during the pre-Islamic era. It was the hometown of Jewish poet Shmuel Ben Adiya, famous for his unconditional loyalty towards Prince Imru al Qais in the 6th century.

Tayma, along with Khaybar were the two most important oasis in the Hejaz region (modern Saudi Arabia) that used to have a strong jewish presence until the fall of Khaybar in 628 (4388 - 4389 in the hebrew calendar) when the first muslims conquered the fortress and expelled most of the jewish population.

[larimar]

facts

[tylermileslockett]

Anubis is an ancient Egyptian deity associated with mummification, the afterlife, and the protection of graves. He is often depicted as a jackal or a man with the head of a jackal. Anubis played a significant role in Egyptian mythology and religious beliefs.

In Egyptian mythology, Anubis was considered the son of Nephthys and Osiris or sometimes of Seth and Nephthys. He was closely associated with death and the process of embalming and mummification. Anubis was believed to oversee the weighing of the deceased person's heart against the feather of Ma'at, the goddess of truth and justice, in the Hall of Ma'at during the judgment of the soul. He would determine the fate of the deceased based on the outcome of this judgment. If the heart was found to be heavier than the feather, it meant the person had led an immoral life, and their heart would be devoured by Ammit, a creature with the head of a crocodile, the front body of a lion, and the rear body of a hippopotamus.

Due to his role in the afterlife, Anubis was also considered a protector of graves and cemeteries. Ancient Egyptians believed that he guarded the tombs and guided the souls of the deceased to the realm of the dead. As a result, Anubis was commonly depicted on the walls of tombs and burial sites, usually in the form of a jackal or as a human figure with a jackal head.

Anubis had a significant presence in ancient Egyptian religious practices. He was invoked during funeral ceremonies and mummification rituals to ensure the proper preservation and protection of the deceased. Anubis was also venerated as a guardian and protector of the living, with people seeking his assistance and favor in various aspects of their lives.

Thanks as always for looking! Xoxo

[stefanzl]

Just a meme I came up with: A 16th-century Western historian on his way to renaming the 'Eastern Roman Empire' to the 'Byzantine Empire' ���📜👨��🏫💭

[mirellabruno]

Glass goblet with gilded silver fittings, Norway, 6th century AD from The Museum of Cultural History, Oslo Source: khm.uio.no

[mineofilms]

The Myth of the Annunaki

In the great annals of human history, ha, anal, mostly made up of fiction, few subjects stir the imagination and ad to the aluminum foil shortage as profoundly as the Annunaki. Shrouded in myth and enigma, these ancient deities from Mesopotamian lore have sparked debates, inspired theories, created fiction, and captivated minds across the centuries. From their origins in the fertile crescent of ancient Sumer to their role in modern speculative fiction, the Annunaki embody a rich tapestry of myth, history, and imagination. This exploration delves into their ancient roots, their controversial modern reinterpretations, the fascination evoked by our imagination, and our ability to want things to be real so bad, that we’ll just take as many liberties as possible; even if all the evidence and logic say a thing like this couldn’t be real. Or could it?

The Ancient Mesopotamian Origins of the Annunaki

Our journey begins in the cradle of civilization: ancient Mesopotamia, a region that flourished between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. Here, the Annunaki first appeared in the mythologies of the Sumerians, who are considered the earliest civilization that could write. The term "Annunaki" itself is often translated as “those who came from the heavens” or “those of royal blood.” This intriguing terminology hints at their elevated status and their perceived connection to the divine or extraterrestrial. In Sumerian mythology, the Annunaki were a pantheon of deities, or the gods of a people, who played crucial roles in the creation of our world and the regulation of its life. They were seen as powerful and unpredictable beings, with the ability to both bestow blessings and wreak havoc upon humanity. The mythological texts from this period reveal that the Annunaki were not abstract concepts but tangible entities with distinct personalities and roles. One of the key sources for understanding the Annunaki is the “Enuma Elish,” the Sumerian creation epic. This ancient narrative describes the primordial chaos from which the world emerged. This myth reflects the Sumerians' worldview, where divine power maintained the balance between chaos and order. The Annunaki's role in Sumerian society extended beyond mere mythology. They were believed to oversee the natural world and human affairs, acting as intermediaries between the gods and the people. Their stories served to justify the divine authority of kings and priests, reinforcing the idea that the rulers were chosen by the gods to maintain cosmic balance from the chaos. This divine connection legitimized the socio-political structures of ancient Mesopotamian civilization.

The Annunaki Reimagined: From Gods to Aliens

In the 20th century, the Annunaki transitioned from divine beings of ancient myth to subjects of modern speculation and conspiracy theories. This transformation was spearheaded by figures like Zecharia Sitchin, whose works have left a permanent mark on how we perceive these ancient myths. Sitchin’s ideas are detailed in his book “The 12th Planet,” where he presents the Annunaki as extraterrestrial visitors from a distant planet named Nibiru. Sitchin’s hypothesis posits that the Annunaki arrived on Earth approximately 450,000 years ago (447,976 BCE). According to his theories, their primary mission was to mine gold, which they needed to repair the failing atmosphere of their home planet, Nibiru. There is some scientific data out there that gold particles can help build up a planet’s atmosphere. There are some intriguing parallels in scientific discussions about the potential uses of gold in atmospheric engineering. Gold is a highly reflective metal with excellent conductive properties, making it suitable for various technological applications. Some we know of and use while others are still in the planning stages. Research has suggested that dispersing gold nanoparticles in the upper atmosphere could theoretically increase a planet's reflectivity, or albedo, thereby reducing the amount of solar energy absorbed and mitigating global warming. Additionally, gold's conductive properties might enhance the electrical conductivity of the ionosphere, potentially stabilizing atmospheric conditions and protecting against solar radiation. While Sitchin's narrative lacks actual real concrete proof, the concept of using gold to address planetary environmental challenges taps into ongoing scientific exploration of innovative geoengineering solutions. Sitchin’s interpretation of ancient texts suggests that the Annunaki’s arrival marked the beginning of human civilization. He argues that these beings not only influenced early human societies but also engineered Homo sapiens through genetic manipulation. This theory, while compelling to many, is highly contentious. Sitchin’s methods and interpretations have faced substantial criticism from the academic community. It's important to note that Zecharia Sitchin lacked formal training in ancient languages and archaeology. His educational background was in economics and journalism, not in the fields relevant to his claims about Sumerian texts and ancient history. This lack of formal expertise has led many academics to criticize his translations and interpretations as speculative and unsubstantiated. His methodology and conclusions have been scrutinized for deviating from established scholarly standards, which is why his work is often labeled as pseudoscience. Pseudoscience literally means science with made-up methodologies and made-up facts. Archaeologists and historians argue that there is no credible evidence supporting the existence of Nibiru or the extraterrestrial origins of the Annunaki. His translations of Sumerian texts are flawed and his theories often stretch the evidence beyond credible limits. Despite this, Sitchin’s ideas have captivated a broad audience, fostering a popular narrative that blends ancient mythology with science fiction. His theories have become a cornerstone of the ancient astronaut hypothesis, which suggests that extraterrestrial beings visited Earth in ancient times and influenced human development. This concept resonates with our fascination with the possibility of life beyond Earth and our desire to explore the unknown or at the very least have an answer where one cannot possibly exist or be factual.

Sitchin’s Controversial Claims: Ancient Astronauts or Misinterpreted Texts?

Sitchin’s theories, particularly those presented in “The 12th Planet,” offer a provocative reimagining of the Annunaki. Sitchin suggests that Nibiru, the Annunaki’s home planet, follows a long, elliptical orbit that brings it close to Earth every 3,600 years. This periodic return, according to Sitchin, allowed the Annunaki to visit Earth and influence human civilization. Sitchin’s narrative begins with the Annunaki’s arrival on Earth, where they established the city of Eridu as their base of operations. Eridu, according to Sitchin, was the first city ever built by these ancient astronauts, serving as a center for their gold mining operations. Over time, the work on Earth became increasingly burdensome and dangerous for the Anunnaki, leading to a significant labor shortage. The Anunnaki’s own workers, who were initially tasked with these duties, were becoming overworked and dissatisfied. We will talk about the Igigi a little bit later. The idea was to create a new species that could handle the manual labor on Earth while the Anunnaki themselves could focus on more critical tasks or return to Nibiru. This led to the concept of bioengineering a creature that would serve as a workforce. The Anunnaki began experimenting with the DNA of the indigenous hominid species, Homo erectus. Through advanced genetic techniques, they combined their own DNA with that of Homo erectus to create a new hybrid species. This genetic manipulation was intended to produce beings with intelligence and physical capabilities suitable for labor. The first attempts at creating this new species were, according to Sitchin, less successful than anticipated. These early hybrids were described as "hideous creatures," struggling to meet the Anunnaki’s requirements for both labor and functionality. These early beings were likely flawed, either in their physical form or in their ability to perform the tasks required of them. Undeterred by their initial failures, the Anunnaki refined their genetic experiments. After several iterations and adjustments, they succeeded in creating a more viable and efficient version of their hybrid creation: Homo sapiens, the modern human. These beings possessed the intelligence, strength, and adaptability necessary for the laborious tasks demanded by the Anunnaki. Once successful, the Anunnaki established Homo sapiens as their labor force, overseeing them and guiding their development. This new species was tasked with performing the menial and physically demanding work that the Anunnaki had initially sought to avoid.

While there are some intriguing gaps and mysteries in human evolution, like missing fossils and sudden advancements in early cultures, scientists believe these are just natural parts of a long, gradual process rather than evidence of any external intervention. One fascinating example is the emergence of our 23rd chromosome, which resulted from the fusion of two ancestral chromosomes that our primate relatives still have as separate chromosomes. This fusion is visible in our DNA through the presence of telomere sequences and a vestigial centromere in the middle of chromosome 2, showing a natural evolutionary change rather than a direct “kick-start” from another species. However, it does bring up more questions than it does answers that all of a sudden this change occurred with no rhyme or reason. “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic” - Arthur C. Clarke. Sitchin’s theories also include a dramatic account of the great flood from the bible, which he attributes to the gravitational effects of Nibiru’s orbit. This flood, he argues, was foreseen by the Annunaki, who warned a human named Ziusudra (or Utnapishtim in the Epic of Gilgamesh and/or Noah from the Great Flood of the Bible.) to build a boat to survive the deluge. After the flood, Sitchin posits that the Annunaki played a role in the rebirth of human civilization, teaching essential skills such as agriculture and animal husbandry; which is just a fancy term for focusing on the breeding and care of animals raised for farming and construction. While these ideas are intriguing, they have been met with skepticism from mainstream scholars. Critics argue that Sitchin’s theories lack rigorous academic support. Despite this, Sitchin’s work has had a significant cultural impact, inspiring a new wave of interest in ancient astronaut theories and alternative history. It also has become a business, which opens up its own can of worms on the subject.

The Modern Legacy of the Annunaki: From Books to Podcasts

The Annunaki mythos continues to capture the imagination of contemporary audiences through a variety of media. One prominent figure in this modern exploration is Billy Carson, whose work delves into ancient civilizations and the Annunaki’s role in shaping human history. Carson’s insights, particularly as discussed on “The Joe Rogan Experience (#2160),” explore how ancient myths might reflect actual historical events involving advanced beings. Carson argues that the Annunaki myths could be more than mere stories, suggesting that they might represent a blend of historical events and spiritual beliefs. His theories offer a contemporary perspective on the Annunaki narrative, examining how ancient myths might encode real encounters with extraterrestrial visitors. Carson’s discussions with Joe Rogan explore the idea that ancient texts from Sumerian culture, and other ancient civilizations, might document actual interactions with advanced beings. This perspective aligns with the broader ancient astronaut hypothesis, which suggests that myths of gods descending from the heavens could reflect historical contact with extraterrestrial civilizations. Billy Carson's theories are derived from Zecharia Sitchin's work. So take it with a grain of salt.

The Igigi in Annunaki Lore

The Igigi, as envisioned in contemporary speculative fiction, are often compared to the Greys of UFO lore—those mysterious, otherworldly beings who have captivated the imaginations of some and terrified others. Here, we encounter a striking physical resemblance that underscores their role within the Annunaki’s grand design. A concurred race from an early Annunaki invasion, these tall, slender beings, their forms reminiscent of the Greys with their short stature and large, almond-shaped eyes. Their skin, a subtle gray hue, reflects an alien quality, hinting at a nature that is both familiar and profoundly otherworldly. Their appearance serves as a visual manifestation of their role as intermediaries between the Annunaki and the cosmos. Dressed in functional, utilitarian garments, the Igigi’s attire speaks to their subservient status. These simple, perhaps even austere outfits might be adorned with symbols or insignia, marking their place within the Annunaki’s hierarchical system. Their clothing, devoid of adornment, reinforces their role as laborers rather than equals. The Annunaki and the Igigi are often mentioned as being one in the same but are actually two distinct separate alien species. At least as far as the lore goes.

• Tools of the Trade: Often depicted wielding advanced, enigmatic technology, the Igigi’s tools and equipment hint at a civilization far more advanced than that of humans. These artifacts, sleek and enigmatic, serve as symbols of the Annunaki’s technological prowess and the Igigi’s role in maintaining their dominion over Earth. Some say the tools leftover after the Annunaki left helped build the first, really large pyramids. The more present-day we get with the pyramids the less technologically advanced they are. Where the farther back we go, the bigger and more extravagant the pyramids become. The Igigi are often envisioned as the Annunaki’s labor force, tasked with monumental projects from the construction of grand temples to the maintenance of celestial machinery. This portrayal aligns with ancient mythological themes of divine beings employing subservient races to fulfill their plans.

• Subordinate Yet Significant: Within this narrative, the Igigi occupy a space that is subordinate yet distinctly advanced. They are positioned as beings with greater skills or knowledge than humans, suggesting a complex, multitiered structure of existence in which they play a crucial role in the Annunaki’s rein.

• Cultural Reflections: The Igigi physical form, their role in the Annunaki hierarchy, and their place in modern speculative fiction all serve as lenses through which we can explore deeper existential questions. The Igigi invites us to reflect on the nature of servitude, the structure of divine power, and our own place in the grand scheme of existence. We find ourselves drawn into cosmic feelings and thoughts that challenge and inspire us. It also scares us to our core foundation that we may just be an insignificant race of worker ants.

The Enuma Elish and Its Cosmic Significance

The Enuma Elish is an ancient Mesopotamian/Sumerian creation epic that dates back to the late second millennium BCE, (2000 BCE to 1001 BCE.) This epic is more than a religious text; it is a reflection of the Sumerians' understanding of the universe and their place within it. In the Enuma Elish, the universe begins in a state of primordial chaos, where Tiamat, the goddess of the saltwater ocean, battles the god Marduk, who represents the forces of order and creation. Marduk’s victory signifies the establishment of the cosmos, with the world being created from Tiamat’s body. This mythological narrative embodies the Sumerians' view of the divine as a force that imposes order upon chaos, a theme that echoes throughout Mesopotamian religion and governance. The epic also illustrates the Sumerians' concept of divine kingship. Marduk’s ascension to supremacy among the gods symbolizes the divine right of kings to rule over the human realm. The Annunaki’s role as divine judges and rulers reflects this belief, showing how mythology was intertwined with political and social structures in Sumerian society.

The Great Flood: Myth and Reality

One of the most enduring aspects of the Annunaki narrative is the story of the Great Flood, which appears in various ancient myths, including the Epic of Gilgamesh. According to Sitchin, this flood was a cataclysmic event caused by Nibiru’s orbit and was a pivotal moment in human history. The flood story serves as a metaphor for both destruction and renewal. It represents the cyclical nature of existence, where the end of one era leads to the beginning of another. This mythological theme is reflected in other ancient cultures, such as the biblical flood narrative of Noah’s Ark, highlighting a shared human fascination with the idea of divine intervention in shaping history. This also gives insight that other branches of humanity survived the Great Flood. Not many pockets, but some did. There was not much left. Pockets of survivors here/there. The Annunaki began to help humanity rebuild, but in a limited way. Showing humans some science but leaving much of it in the dark. We turn the light switch on, but don’t know why it works. Just that it works and we have some idea how to fix the switch when it breaks, but we cannot literally build a new one as they did. Just our badly back-engineered knowledge of the thing. This seems even more prevalent today.

The Fascination with the Annunaki

We question our understanding of the past and explore the possibilities of what lies beyond our world, our understanding. The Annunaki’s legacy is not confined to academic study or historical research. They continue to inspire a wide range of creative works, from books and documentaries to podcasts and films. Some intended to be works of fiction while others try to paint the picture as this really did happen in our distant past. This ongoing fascination reflects a deep-seated human desire to connect with the mysteries of existence and to explore the unknown.

Embracing the Enigma - “You Are Bugs…”

The Annunaki’s story, rooted in the myths of ancient Mesopotamia and reimagined through modern theories, offers a rich and multifaceted narrative that invites us to explore the boundaries of our knowledge and imagination. As we delve into the history and speculation surrounding the Annunaki, we confront not only ancient mysteries, but also the limits of our perception and the possibilities of what might lie beyond. Whether viewed as gods, aliens, or metaphorical figures, the Annunaki challenge us to embrace the enigma of our origins and to seek out the answers to the great questions of existence. The Annunaki’s journey from ancient Mesopotamian myths to contemporary theories highlights the enduring allure of these celestial beings. Their story encourages us to explore the unknown and to question the narratives that shape our understanding of the universe. The Annunaki stand as a testament to the power of myth and the endless possibilities of the human imagination.

If beings like the Greys, Anunnaki, and Igigi are real, the implications for mankind could be deeply terrifying and unsettling. The existence of such advanced entities would create a profound power imbalance, leaving humanity vulnerable to their superior technology and intellect, which might challenge our beliefs about our own significance and place in the universe. The fear of being controlled or manipulated by these beings could evoke a sense of existential dread, as we might question the very meaning of our existence, existence in general, and the potential for extinction or enslavement of our species. Historically, the idea that these beings might have shaped our civilizations and beliefs from the shadows would undermine our understanding of our past and cast doubt on our sense of free will and autonomy as the dominant species on this planet. The terror of the unknown—where their intentions are indecipherable and could involve invasive experiments or even global invasions—would stir fears of being watched, violated, or destroyed. This fear would also have a global psychological impact, leading to anxiety, paranoia, and a crisis of identity as we confront the reality that we might be insignificant in the grand cosmic scheme. “You are bugs…” ~Liu Cixin, The Three-Body Problem. Philosophically, the existence of such beings would provoke deep questions about our own morality of our collective behavior in the past 3,000 years, the morality of their actions, and our own role in the universe. Challenging our beliefs about existence and ethics. This realization of the Greys, Anunnaki, and Igigi as real entities would force us to face an unsettling truth about our vulnerability, the reliability of our historical narratives, the very nature of our existence in the cosmos, and that God exists and created us in its own image. Perhaps to just hear our screams. Even God cannot hear bugs scream, in space.

All the information here was derived from the main outline below. If anyone wanted a very short telling of this tale via a basic timescale outline, there is one below.

"I felt an absolutely indescribable sense of menace. It was hell on earth to be there, and yet I couldn't move, couldn't cry out, couldn't get away. I'd lay as still as death, suffering inner agonies." ~Whitley Strieber, “Communion” 2/25/1987

The Myth of the Annunaki by David-Angelo Mineo 7/1/2024 3,336 Words

Outline: Ancient Timeline of Earth

The Annunaki Myth, Religious Myths, and Modern Innovations

Ancient Timeline of Earth and Mankind: The Annunaki

Pre-Earth Events

Primordial Era

The Enuma Elish describes the creation of the world starting with the primordial gods Apsu (freshwater) and Tiamat (salt water). Their mingling leads to the birth of younger gods, including Ea (Enki), who defeats Apsu and later Tiamat, establishing order from chaos.

Arrival of the Annunaki

Circa 450,000 years ago

According to Sitchin’s "The 12th Planet," advanced beings called the Annunaki arrive on Earth from their home planet, Nibiru. Nibiru’s elongated orbit brings it into the inner solar system approximately every 3,600 years.

Establishment of Eridu

Circa 445,000 years ago

The Annunaki establish Eridu, the first city on Earth, in southern Mesopotamia. Enki, the god of wisdom, water, and creation, oversees the development of Eridu as a base for mining operations.

Gold Mining and the Creation of Man

Circa 300,000 years ago

The Annunaki face labor shortages and hardships in their gold mining operations. Enki and the goddess Ninhursag create Homo sapiens by genetically modifying Homo erectus with Annunaki DNA. The first humans, known as "Lulu," are created to serve as workers for the Annunaki.

The Deluge (Great Flood)

Circa 13,000 years ago

The Epic of Gilgamesh and Sitchin’s writings describe a great deluge caused by the gravitational pull of Nibiru passing near Earth. Enki warns Ziusudra (Utnapishtim and/or Noah) to build a large boat to save himself, his family, and various species from the flood.

Post-Flood Reconstruction

Post-Flood Era (circa 10,000 BCE)

The Annunaki help humanity rebuild civilization after the flood. Agriculture, animal husbandry, and advanced knowledge are shared with humans. Key cities such as Ur, Uruk, and Nippur are established and flourish.

Rise of City-States and Kingship

Circa 3,000 BCE

Sumerian city-states rise to prominence, each with a patron god or goddess. Kingship is seen as a divine institution bestowed by the Annunaki. Inanna (Ishtar) becomes a significant deity, known for her power, beauty, and political influence.

The Epic of Gilgamesh

Circa 2,600 BCE

The historical King Gilgamesh of Uruk embarks on a quest for immortality. The epic narrative includes interactions with gods and mythical creatures, reflecting the close relationship between humans and the divine.

Decline of Annunaki Influence

Circa 1,000 BCE and onward

The direct influence of the Annunaki wanes as human civilizations grow more independent. The memory of the Annunaki becomes mythologized in various cultures, giving rise to numerous legends and religious narratives.

Comprehensive Timeline: Annunaki Myth, Christian Bible, and Western Civilization

Ancient Mythological and Religious Accounts

Early Sumerian Civilization (c. 4500-1900 BCE)

The Annunaki are a group of deities linked to the Sumerians, Akkadians, Assyrians, and Babylonians. They are depicted as judges of the underworld and creators of mankind. Primary sources include Sumerian texts such as the Enuma Elish and the Epic of Gilgamesh.

Ancient Mesopotamian Mythology (c. 1900-539 BCE)

The Annunaki myth expands in Babylonian and Assyrian mythology. The Annunaki are positioned below higher gods like Anu, Enlil, and Ea/Enki.

Egyptian Civilization

Old Kingdom of Egypt (c. 2686-2181 BCE)

Egyptian mythology includes gods like Ra, Osiris, and Isis. Creation myths often involve gods emerging from primordial chaos. Construction of pyramids, including the Great Pyramid of Giza.

New Kingdom of Egypt (c. 1550-1070 BCE)

Heightened worship of gods like Amun-Ra. Pharaohs are considered divine or semi-divine. Cultural achievements include the expansion of the empire, construction of temples, and advancements in art and literature.

Greek Civilization

Classical Greece (c. 508-323 BCE)

Greek mythology features gods like Zeus, Hera, and Athena. Creation myths include the Titans and Olympians. Contributions by Socrates, Plato, Aristotle lead to the development of early scientific thought.

Hellenistic Period (c. 323-31 BCE)

Greek culture spreads throughout the Mediterranean and Near East following the conquests of Alexander the Great. Syncretism leads to the blending of Greek and local deities and myths.

Roman Civilization

Roman Republic (c. 509-27 BCE)

Roman gods parallel Greek deities, e.g., Jupiter (Zeus), Venus (Aphrodite). Political developments include the establishment of the Republic and the codification of Roman law.

Roman Empire (27 BCE-476 CE)

Emergence and spread of Christianity, including the crucifixion of Jesus Christ (c. 30 CE). Cultural achievements include extensive road networks, architectural marvels like the Colosseum, and legal advancements.

Development of Europe

Early Middle Ages (c. 476-1000 CE)

Christianity becomes dominant in Europe. Monasticism and the establishment of the papacy. Development of feudalism and manorialism.

High and Late Middle Ages (c. 1000-1500 CE)

The Crusades: Religious wars aimed at reclaiming the Holy Land. Cultural revival includes Gothic architecture, universities, and scholasticism.

Renaissance (c. 1300-1600 CE)

Rebirth of classical knowledge: Revival of Greek and Roman knowledge. Advancements in art, science, and exploration. Humanism focuses on human potential and achievements.

Formation of Modern Western Culture

Reformation and Enlightenment (c. 1500-1800 CE)

Martin Luther’s 95 Theses (1517) sparks the Protestant Reformation. Scientific developments by Copernicus, Galileo, and Newton. The Enlightenment emphasizes reason, individualism, and skepticism of authority.

Formation of England and Modern Europe (c. 800-1800 CE)

Formation of early English kingdoms. The Norman Conquest (1066) establishes Norman rule. The development of modern nation-states in Europe.

Industrial Revolution and Modern Era (c. 1800-Present)

Technological advancements, urbanization, and economic changes. Influence of Western culture globally, driven by economic, technological, and cultural factors. Continued advancements in science and technology. Widespread debunking of pseudo-scientific theories like Sitchin’s Annunaki hypothesis.

Integration of Annunaki Myth and Christian Bible

Modern Interpretations and Pseudo-scientific Theories (1976 onwards)

Zecharia Sitchin proposes that the Annunaki are extraterrestrial beings from the planet Nibiru, influencing early human history. Sitchin’s theories are widely discredited by scholars and scientists.

Cultural Impact and Ongoing Beliefs (2000s-Present)

Annunaki and Nibiru myths influence books, movies, and online discussions. Christian themes remain prevalent in Western culture, influencing literature, art, and media. Despite scientific debunking, belief in Sitchin’s theories persists in some communities.

[yourantiquarian]

Bronze Age sarcophagus lid

ITEM Sarcophagus lid MATERIAL Pottery CULTURE Bronze Age, Canaanite PERIOD 1400 - 1200 B.C DIMENSIONS 270 mm x 157 mm x 35 mm CONDITION Good condition PROVENANCE Ex Museum Exhibiton of the Arbeitsgruppe für Biblische Archäologie, Germany (Deaccession) The Canaanite sarcophagus lid is an extraordinary artifact that sheds light on the burial practices and artistic traditions of the ancient Canaanite civilization, which flourished in the Levant region from the Bronze Age to the Iron Age. These lids, typically crafted from stone such as limestone, were designed to cover sarcophagi, or stone coffins, that housed the deceased. The lids often featured intricate carvings and reliefs, reflecting both the artistic abilities of the Canaanites and their beliefs about the afterlife. Many Canaanite sarcophagi, particularly from the Late Bronze Age, show a fusion of Egyptian and local Canaanite influences, indicating the strong cultural exchange between these civilizations. One notable characteristic of Canaanite sarcophagus lids is the stylized human face or mask often carved into the stone. This representation of the deceased, though somewhat abstract, was believed to honor and preserve the identity of the individual in the afterlife. The facial features, typically simple and symmetrical, were not highly personalized but followed conventional designs, which might have reflected the Canaanite belief in the continuity of the soul beyond physical death. Read the full article

[godhatesione]

Terracotta rattles

Museum of Cycladic art, Athens, Greece.

(I normally wouldnt post this, because you can see my cherry dress in the reflection but these piggies were too cute not to share)

[geohoneylovers]

Honey: Nature's golden gift, bridging cultures, weaving tales of ancient wisdom and vitality through generations. Explore the sweet tapestry of our shared history. 🌍🍯

[kimludcom]

Lost Technologies of Ancient Civilizations: Uncovering Pre-Egyptian Innovations ‪@Kimlud‬

[ancienthistoryart]

[afrikan-vanguard]

"What was once thought to be an isolated phenomenon of the uncivilized world now provides power, not only symbolically, but practically."

🌿 The Cult of Trees: Iconicity and Resilience in the Face of Climate Change | The Natural Law. 🌿

🌎 https://midd.me/0vKa

🔗 https://kizweili.ca

[jeannereames]

New Covers are Here!

New covers! Need a Christmas or Hanukkah gift for the history-lover in your life? Or even just for yourself?

Get these stunning new covers with revised content.

Blurbed by none other than Kate Elliott.

PLEASE REPOST & BOOST!

[tylermileslockett]

I'll be posting some of these illustrations I did for a cool short story project about the power of seeking value outside of material desires. And it has an Asian feels, which was a nice contrast to so much of the Greek design works. 🤘😁🤘

[dropsofsciencenews]

What’s Left on the Neolithic...plate?

ITA version ESP version

Sometimes, not having soap to wash the dishes thoroughly can be useful... especially if we want to uncover our past activities. It is thanks to the residues found in ancient ceramic vessels that a research team, composed of members from the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), the University of Zaragoza, and the University of Strasbourg, has revealed the first direct evidence of the consumption and processing of dairy products since the beginning of the Neolithic period, around 7,500 years ago.

The study utilised the remains of about thirty ceramic vessels obtained from two archaeological sites found in the caves of Chaves and Puyascada, located in the province of Huesca, Spain, to understand the usage and preservation habits of food. The researchers organised and classified the vessels according to various criteria, such as the type of profile, shape, cooking conditions, surface treatment, type of decoration, depth, and volume. Subsequently, lipids were extracted from the ceramic remains using a technique that employs acidified methanol, then analysed through gas chromatography and mass spectrometry.

Thanks to the morphological profiles, the researchers classified the vessels based on their function: preparation with or without heating, serving, and storage. Indeed, a group of ceramic pots was classified as suitable for food preparation, particularly for prolonged boiling thanks to the closed rims that prevent excessive evaporation. Others were suitable for pounding or stirring, as they have thick walls, which would be more resistant to heavy impacts. Regarding organic matter, the residues found in the vessels include ruminant fats, pork, plant products, and dairy, suggesting intentional mixing or subsequent uses.

Another group of small vessels was interpreted as serving containers, used for individual consumption of food and liquids. They could have been easily handled with one hand, so they were likely intended for individual use. The identified ingredients range from animal fats to edible plants and resins. Finally, a last group of vessels, with deep and closed necks, was considered ideal for storing liquids and low-fat foods, such as cereals and legumes.

The analysis of organic residues from the Chaves ceramics indicates that these were mainly used for processing ruminant meat, representing 50% of the residues, and dairy products, which constitute 28%. This is consistent with the mortality profiles of the animals at Chaves, which show that goats, cattle, and pigs were slaughtered young, during the so-called "optimum of meat". At Puyascada, on the other hand, the ceramics were mainly used for dairy products, which account for 54% of the organic residues, while ruminant fats only make up 27%, and pork fat is well represented at 36%. The low percentage of ruminant fats could be due to different preparation and consumption methods compared to Chaves.

The high percentage of dairy fats at Puyascada suggests a priority in the use of ceramics for milk processing. Additionally, the importance of pork fat, despite the low quantitative presence of the species, could indicate specific preparation of pork or its use as a fat reserve. The preparation and consumption of pork fat were widespread practices in Neolithic Iberia, with evidence in many archaeological sites. The data suggest that, while milk was processed and consumed at both sites, ruminant and pork fats were managed differently, reflecting distinct production and consumption strategies.

From the shape of the vessels and the organic residues, scientists have managed to offer a valuable window into the social dynamics and agricultural and livestock practices of Neolithic communities in the Iberian Peninsula.

Other previous studies confirm the production of dairy products in Europe during the Neolithic, but this is the first study that makes a direct comparison between neighbours, between caves located about 100 km apart, describing the diversity of lifestyles.

source: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12520-024-02001-9#Sec14

examples of ceramic vessels: