Sunday, September 11, 2011

History-Reading #3

It was interesting to read how the author explains how he as a college student in the 1970's-80's was taught about the archeology os seafaring and the information was false. In addition, it was intriguing to read about how he explains why the misinterpretation of the maritime people happened for so long. He explains, "...humans evolved and spread around the world during the Pleistocene, a period dominated by heavy glaciation and dramatic changes in global sea-level and coastal geography" (p.9). Indicating that there were numerous changes that occurred that were not taken into account.
Furthermore, in the reading, "From Asia to the Americas", it was fascinating to read about the alternative coastal migration theory. The theory explains how and when the Americas were colonized, especially after geological researched indicated otherwise.
In addition, it was in-spiteful to read how it has been discovered that a lot of the voyages could have not been completed unless sophisticated boats were developed and more agricultural products needed to survive remotely. Continuing on with the reading regarding Polynesians in the Pacific, it was unfortunate to learn that with global warming and sea-level rising archaeological records are threatened by coastal erosion.
Lastly, it was also interesting to read how it was determined where and when watercraft were created in the Native American community. For example, places with more resources were able to have access to bark canoes and has trees that were available to produce birch, beach, or spruce. In contrast, Native Americans who did not have access to these tools may have used animal fat and unfortunately the material was not effective in harsh temperate water conditions.

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