How Old is Tiahuanaco? Is it the 'Cradle of American Man?'

TL;DR

Tiwanaku's age and origins have long been a mystery. Recent research suggests an older dating of around 10,000 BC, aligning with the cataclysmic event of the Younger Dryas. Arthur Poznanski's work provides compelling evidence for Tiwanaku's ancient origins and its importance in American prehistory.

Transcript

located high on the andean plateau of south america in the country of bolivia can be found the ruins of a once mighty civilization and amongst them the clues to one of history's most unique and enduring mysteries what was this place when was it built how in the world did these people survive in ancient times at nearly thirteen thousand feet or four... Read More

Key Insights

• 🤕 Tiwanaku's age and origins have long been debated, with mainstream academia dating it to around 200 to 1000 AD.
• 🥶 Arthur Poznanski's research proposes an older dating of approximately 10,000 BC, supported by geological evidence of glacial periods and subsequent warming.
• 😥 Tiwanaku's advanced stonework, precise astronomical alignments, and possible connections to extinct megafauna point to a highly sophisticated civilization.

Questions & Answers

Q: What evidence supports the claim that Tiwanaku is much older than previously thought?

Arthur Poznanski's research combines geological, archaeological, and astronomical evidence to suggest an age of around 10,000 BC for Tiwanaku. Geological studies indicate glacial periods and subsequent warming, aligning with the cataclysmic event of the Younger Dryas.

Q: How did the climate of the Altiplano region affect Tiwanaku's existence?

Poznanski suggests that Tiwanaku thrived during a period of more favorable climate, marked by warmer conditions and abundant water resources. This allowed for the construction of a sophisticated metropolis and the development of advanced agriculture.

Q: What evidence supports the existence of an ancient civilization at Tiwanaku?

The complex stonework, precise astronomical alignments, and the intricate designs found at Tiwanaku provide evidence of an advanced civilization. The Kalasasaya solar observatory and the megalithic structures at Pumapunku demonstrate a high level of architectural and engineering skill.

Q: How has looting and destruction impacted the archaeological understanding of Tiwanaku?

Over the centuries, Tiwanaku has suffered from extensive looting and destruction. Many of the original structures and artifacts have been repurposed as building materials. Careless excavation and misguided attempts to eradicate indigenous beliefs have also led to the loss of valuable insights into the site's history.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Arthur Poznanski's research suggests that Tiwanaku was founded around 10,000 BC, much older than the mainstream dating of 200 to 1000 AD.

• Geological evidence supports Poznanski's claims of glacial periods and subsequent warming, which align with the cataclysmic event of the Younger Dryas.

• Tiwanaku's complex stonework and astronomical alignments, such as the Kalasasaya solar observatory, indicate advanced knowledge and a sophisticated civilization.

• Tiwanaku suffered from looting, destruction, and careless excavation, but ongoing research reveals the potential for further discoveries.