1 ancient science --- the lost discoveries from the beginning of recorded history to the renaissance...

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Ancient ScienceAncient Science

--- The Lost Discoveries from the beginning of Recorded History to the Renaissance ------ The Lost Discoveries from the beginning of Recorded History to the Renaissance ---Lost Discoveries - Parts 1 & 2 Lost Discoveries - Parts 1 & 2 - Dick Teresi. Random House Audible - Notes compiled by J. Bickart, - Dick Teresi. Random House Audible - Notes compiled by J. Bickart,

2003 - 2007.2003 - 2007.

#1#1 MATH, ASTRONOMY, & GEOLOGY ..….… MATH, ASTRONOMY, & GEOLOGY ..….… pages pages 2 - 62 - 6#2#2 EARLY INSTRUMENTS …………..………………EARLY INSTRUMENTS …………..……………… pages pages 7 - 107 - 10#3#3 RECORDED HISTORY …………………………… RECORDED HISTORY …………………………… pages pages 11 - 1411 - 14#4#4 START TECHNOLOGY …………………..……… START TECHNOLOGY …………………..……… pages pages 15 - 1815 - 18#5#5 START SCIENCESTART SCIENCE ………………..………… ………………..………… pages pages 19 - 2519 - 25#6#6 SOUTH AMERICA & AFRICA …………………… SOUTH AMERICA & AFRICA …………………… pages pages 26 - 2926 - 29#7#7 INDIA & CHINAINDIA & CHINA ……………..…………… ……………..…………… pages pages 30 - 3530 - 35#8#8 THE BIG 4THE BIG 4 ………….……………… ………….……………… pages pages 36 - 3936 - 39#9#9 Ancient Science Summary ……………………… Ancient Science Summary ……………………… pages pages 40 - 4340 - 43

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#1 Mathematics, #1 Mathematics, Astronomy, Astronomy, & Geology& Geology

MATHEMATICSMATHEMATICS Indians: [Indians: [zero]zero], [, [negative numbers]negative numbers], 1,000 years , 1,000 years

before Europe, [before Europe, [calculus]calculus] centuries before centuries before Leibniz, [Leibniz, ['Arabic Numerals']'Arabic Numerals'] (which came from (which came from India 876 A.D., Gwalior, India)India 876 A.D., Gwalior, India)

Mayans: zero, same time as IndiansMayans: zero, same time as Indians Sumerians: [Sumerians: [algebra]algebra] 1,000 years before Greeks 1,000 years before Greeks Egyptians: 18th century B.C., simple equationsEgyptians: 18th century B.C., simple equations Babylonians: 3rd millenium B.C., base 60 Babylonians: 3rd millenium B.C., base 60

(sexigesimal) - Copernicus used this also(sexigesimal) - Copernicus used this also Mesopotamia: 2,000 B.C., tables of squaresMesopotamia: 2,000 B.C., tables of squares

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#1 Mathematics, Astronomy, #1 Mathematics, Astronomy, & Geology … continued& Geology … continued

MATHEMATICS … continuedMATHEMATICS … continued Arabs: algebra & decimalsArabs: algebra & decimals Greeks: treat mathematics as ideas (abstractly)Greeks: treat mathematics as ideas (abstractly) Chinese: ahead of Western EuropeansChinese: ahead of Western Europeans Ethiopians: ahead of Western EuropeansEthiopians: ahead of Western Europeans Galileo later: physics, Galileo later: physics, pendulumpendulum, , telescopetelescope, ,

strings, acceleration, geometrical viewstrings, acceleration, geometrical view Polynesians: sailed to Americas centuries before Polynesians: sailed to Americas centuries before

Columbus & settled islands of Hawaii to New Columbus & settled islands of Hawaii to New ZealandZealand

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ASTRONOMYASTRONOMY Tycho Brahe (16th century) followed al-Tycho Brahe (16th century) followed al-

Mamun who made a 56' radius stone Mamun who made a 56' radius stone sextant with a 20' radius quadrant, which sextant with a 20' radius quadrant, which was larger and better than Brahe's.was larger and better than Brahe's.

Chinese found size of earth nearly 1,000 Chinese found size of earth nearly 1,000 years before Eratosthenesyears before Eratosthenes

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GEOLOGYGEOLOGY Chinese: Seismograph: 132 A.D. by Cheng Chinese: Seismograph: 132 A.D. by Cheng

Heng - it had 1 of 8 dragon heads drop a Heng - it had 1 of 8 dragon heads drop a ball to a toad in the direction of the ball to a toad in the direction of the earthquakeearthquake

1st compass: 475 - 221 B.C. - it was 1st compass: 475 - 221 B.C. - it was spoon-like with a loadstonespoon-like with a loadstone

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#1 Mathematics, Astronomy, #1 Mathematics, Astronomy, & Geology … & Geology … QUESTIONS:QUESTIONS:

1.1. Why do you think an entire culture Why do you think an entire culture did not use did not use the number ‘zero’the number ‘zero’??Religious feeling of avoiding nothingnessReligious feeling of avoiding nothingness

2.2. Why do you think the Mayans came up with zero Why do you think the Mayans came up with zero at the same time as the Indians?at the same time as the Indians? Universal mind Universal mind

3.3. Why do you think hardly anyone did experiments Why do you think hardly anyone did experiments before Galileo, then – from then on – many before Galileo, then – from then on – many people did?people did? Universal mind went from pre-analytical to analytical Universal mind went from pre-analytical to analytical

4.4. Name 3 things you think you would do during Name 3 things you think you would do during your day if you could not read, write, or use your day if you could not read, write, or use technology?technology? ----- -----

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#2#2

The New InstrumentsThe New Instruments Francis Bacon - gunpowder, compass, and Francis Bacon - gunpowder, compass, and

paper/printing transformed modern world - paper/printing transformed modern world - they all came from China (see below)they all came from China (see below)

iron suspension bridge from Kashmiriron suspension bridge from Kashmir paper making commonplace in China, Tibet, paper making commonplace in China, Tibet,

India, and Baghdad centuries before EuropeIndia, and Baghdad centuries before Europe movable typemovable type 1041 by Bi Sheng long before 1041 by Bi Sheng long before

GutenbergGutenberg Kechuan Indians of Peru Kechuan Indians of Peru vulcanized rubbervulcanized rubber

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#2 … continued#2 … continued

Andean farmers first Andean farmers first freeze dried foodsfreeze dried foods (potatoes)(potatoes)

European explorers depended heavily on European explorers depended heavily on Indian and Filipino shipbuilders and maps Indian and Filipino shipbuilders and maps from Arabsfrom Arabs

Europeans got textiles from IndiaEuropeans got textiles from India Peruvian textiles had 109 hues from dyes Peruvian textiles had 109 hues from dyes

that are still brightly colored todaythat are still brightly colored today

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Alfred W. Crosby, Alfred W. Crosby, Ecological Imperialism: The Ecological Imperialism: The Biological Expansion of Europe 900 - 1900Biological Expansion of Europe 900 - 1900 - claims 2 - claims 2 centers of invention transformed history - 1) Middle East: centers of invention transformed history - 1) Middle East: Sumeria and successors 2) Mexico: Olmecs and others - he Sumeria and successors 2) Mexico: Olmecs and others - he says not one of dozen most important inventions come says not one of dozen most important inventions come from Europe - it was just a transfer stationfrom Europe - it was just a transfer station

Mesopotamia over several thousand years: Sumerians Mesopotamia over several thousand years: Sumerians (tribes from eastern mountains as early as 8,000 B.C. (tribes from eastern mountains as early as 8,000 B.C. settled between Tigris & Euphrates Rivers which Greeks settled between Tigris & Euphrates Rivers which Greeks later called Mesopotamia - from Persian Gulf to later called Mesopotamia - from Persian Gulf to Mediteranian Sea - 'Fertile Crescent' - crossroads for Mediteranian Sea - 'Fertile Crescent' - crossroads for Eurasian world - "starter kit" for eastern hemisphere's Eurasian world - "starter kit" for eastern hemisphere's cultures), Hittites, Asyerians, Arabs, others - transferred cultures), Hittites, Asyerians, Arabs, others - transferred technology to each other technology to each other

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#2 #2 … … QUESTIONS:QUESTIONS:

1.1. It is said by some experts in the history of science that It is said by some experts in the history of science that the 3 most influential discoveries of all time were: the 3 most influential discoveries of all time were: gunpowder gunpowder warwar paper (and the printing process to go paper (and the printing process to go along with it) along with it) communication communication , and the compass , and the compass transportationtransportation Where Where ChinaChina did these come from and why do you think did these come from and why do you think these were the most influential discoveries?these were the most influential discoveries?

2.2. Name three technologies that were directly given to Name three technologies that were directly given to Europeans from previous civilizations?Europeans from previous civilizations? Filipino ships, Arabian maps, Indian textiles Filipino ships, Arabian maps, Indian textiles

3.3. Who do you think Crosby is implying that Europe Who do you think Crosby is implying that Europe transferred ancient technologies to?transferred ancient technologies to? To the West (USA) To the West (USA)

4.4. Who made the technology “starter kit” for later cultures? Who made the technology “starter kit” for later cultures?

Sumerians Sumerians

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#3#3

Sumer ~5,000 B.C. - Sumer ~5,000 B.C. - begin written chronicle!begin written chronicle! - - difference in techological progress between prior difference in techological progress between prior hunter gatherers and Sumerians is less than hunter gatherers and Sumerians is less than Sumerians and themselvesSumerians and themselves

changes in technology began with grinding & changes in technology began with grinding & polishing stone tools - ended with smelting metalpolishing stone tools - ended with smelting metal

in between: barnyard animals domesticated, in between: barnyard animals domesticated, writing (3500 B.C.), build cities in 3000 B.C.: first writing (3500 B.C.), build cities in 3000 B.C.: first may have been Uruk, now Iraq, 50,000 population may have been Uruk, now Iraq, 50,000 population (brick, arches, domes, Ziggurat temples on (brick, arches, domes, Ziggurat temples on mountains of bricks, usually in 7 layersmountains of bricks, usually in 7 layers

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Sumerians: wool into Sumerians: wool into clothcloth, flax into , flax into linenlinen, , canals, canals, WHEELWHEEL (3500 B.C.: pottery wheel, (3500 B.C.: pottery wheel, carts, moving, carts, moving, chariotschariots & other engines of & other engines of war), writingwar), writing

2500 B.C. - first free standing 2500 B.C. - first free standing glassglass objects (Mesopotamia & Egypt)objects (Mesopotamia & Egypt)

King Hammurabi ~ 1775 B.C. Babylonian King Hammurabi ~ 1775 B.C. Babylonian Empire (out of merged Sumerians and Empire (out of merged Sumerians and conquering Acadians) makes code of lawsconquering Acadians) makes code of laws

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~1600 B.C. Hittites, from Black and Caspian Seas, ~1600 B.C. Hittites, from Black and Caspian Seas, invade Babylonia - probably first with smelted iron invade Babylonia - probably first with smelted iron and wheeled military machines (probably and wheeled military machines (probably precursor to precursor to gear & axlegear & axle used a few centuries used a few centuries later for water powered corn mills) - also mined later for water powered corn mills) - also mined and traded copper and silverand traded copper and silver

Asyerians take over and first to outfit armies with Asyerians take over and first to outfit armies with ironiron 700 B.C. 700 B.C.

Asyerians build city of Nineveh from tax money Asyerians build city of Nineveh from tax money from conquered lands (destroyed in 612 B.C. by from conquered lands (destroyed in 612 B.C. by Chaldeans, Meads, & Persians): clay tablet library, Chaldeans, Meads, & Persians): clay tablet library, double walls 50' thick x 100' highdouble walls 50' thick x 100' high

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1.1. Where and when did Recorded history start?Where and when did Recorded history start? 5,000 B.C. 5,000 B.C.

2.2. Which is the larger technological change Which is the larger technological change (according to Teresi): from humans being (according to Teresi): from humans being hunter/gatherers -hunter/gatherers - to the Stone Age, or from to the Stone Age, or from the Stone Age -the Stone Age - to the Metal Ages? to the Metal Ages? Stone to Metal Stone to Metal

3.3. When do we think humankind used the wheel? When do we think humankind used the wheel? and for what?and for what? 3500 B.C.: pottery wheel, carts, moving, 3500 B.C.: pottery wheel, carts, moving, chariotschariots & other engines of war & other engines of war

4.4. Can you name a technology that was just Can you name a technology that was just created recently – but could have been created created recently – but could have been created in ancient times? in ancient times? Electric motor, electric generator, computer Electric motor, electric generator, computer

TechnologyTechnologyisisAcceleratingAccelerating

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#4#4

Hanging Gardens of BabylonHanging Gardens of Babylon 616 B.C. Nebuchadnezzar takes Babylonia and builds 616 B.C. Nebuchadnezzar takes Babylonia and builds

Hanging Gardens of Babylon for one of his wives to keep Hanging Gardens of Babylon for one of his wives to keep her from being homesick her from being homesick

remains of gardens never found, but Greek historian remains of gardens never found, but Greek historian (Diodorus Siculus) writes: 1/4 mile base of slabs of stone, (Diodorus Siculus) writes: 1/4 mile base of slabs of stone, terraces covered with plants, cantilevered to project over terraces covered with plants, cantilevered to project over lower levelslower levels

terraces suspended in air over galleries, terraces terraces suspended in air over galleries, terraces supported by 22' thick walls, even roof had trees, 10' supported by 22' thick walls, even roof had trees, 10' passages, holes in terraces to light galleries, roof: had passages, holes in terraces to light galleries, roof: had waterproof layer of lead, 2 layers of brick, reed matting waterproof layer of lead, 2 layers of brick, reed matting set in asphalt, then soil for treesset in asphalt, then soil for trees

watered by watered by screw pumpscrew pump from Euphrates (may be from Euphrates (may be precursor to Archimedes screw by 700 years)precursor to Archimedes screw by 700 years)

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Babylon was huge and never completely Babylon was huge and never completely excavated, population 1/2 million, center excavated, population 1/2 million, center of human universe - grand scale - 8 level of human universe - grand scale - 8 level zigarat, 200' high, covered in gold, spiral zigarat, 200' high, covered in gold, spiral staircase with seats for climbers to reststaircase with seats for climbers to rest

much technology was lost by conquest, much technology was lost by conquest, but Persians, then later the Muslims but Persians, then later the Muslims tended to and enhanced much of Middle tended to and enhanced much of Middle East technologyEast technology

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HydrologyHydrology:: water tanks in Jericho 6000 B.C., water tanks in Jericho 6000 B.C., canal from Tigris before 2500 B.C., Egyptian canal from Tigris before 2500 B.C., Egyptian department of irrigation in 2800 B.C. & a dam 20 department of irrigation in 2800 B.C. & a dam 20 miles from Cairo in 2500 B.C. (remains are still miles from Cairo in 2500 B.C. (remains are still there after over 5,000 years)there after over 5,000 years)

Water MillingWater Milling:: in Baghdad with population in Baghdad with population approaching 1 million even had floating mills to approaching 1 million even had floating mills to keep up with corn milling running 24x7 with keep up with corn milling running 24x7 with millstones and wooden gearsmillstones and wooden gears

Wind MillsWind Mills:: invented in Middle East ~950 A.D. invented in Middle East ~950 A.D. (some still operating) (some still operating)

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1.1. How about that city Nebuchadnezzar is reputed to How about that city Nebuchadnezzar is reputed to have built! What ancient historian writes about have built! What ancient historian writes about this?this?Diodorus SiculusDiodorus Siculus

2.2. Who invented a water pump like Archimedes’ Who invented a water pump like Archimedes’ screw? When?screw? When?Babylonians in 616 B.C.Babylonians in 616 B.C.

3.3. How did ancient Baghdad keep up with providing How did ancient Baghdad keep up with providing grain for it’s 1 million people?grain for it’s 1 million people? Floating mills running 24x7 Floating mills running 24x7

4.4. If some dams’ remains can last 5,000 years and If some dams’ remains can last 5,000 years and some wind mills can still operate after almost 3,000 some wind mills can still operate after almost 3,000 years, what material must they be made of? In a years, what material must they be made of? In a word, why wouldn’t your house last 1,000 years? word, why wouldn’t your house last 1,000 years? Stone vs. wood Stone vs. wood

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#5#5

Scientists and Technicians often considered the same and Scientists and Technicians often considered the same and many men were both, i.e. Banu Musa Brothers of Islam (~850 many men were both, i.e. Banu Musa Brothers of Islam (~850 A.D., A.D., The Book of Ingenius DevicesThe Book of Ingenius Devices, in Baghdad): , in Baghdad): astronomers, mathematicians, as well as engineers: made astronomers, mathematicians, as well as engineers: made water wheels, hot & cold water systems, pumps, automatic water wheels, hot & cold water systems, pumps, automatic oil lamps, dredging machines, fountains, a crank, 83 trick oil lamps, dredging machines, fountains, a crank, 83 trick vessels as toys or curiosities (a pitcher which cannot resume vessels as toys or curiosities (a pitcher which cannot resume pouring once stopped, mixtures that pour separately)pouring once stopped, mixtures that pour separately)

AutomataAutomata - al Gazer ~1200 A.D. in Turkish Artukid Dynasty - - al Gazer ~1200 A.D. in Turkish Artukid Dynasty - gear systems mainly for water (200 years later showed up in gear systems mainly for water (200 years later showed up in European clock) one invention was drinking men on an European clock) one invention was drinking men on an automated toy boat which when activated had sailors rowing automated toy boat which when activated had sailors rowing while musicians were playingwhile musicians were playing

1,000 years ago Califs of Baghdad built private playgrounds 1,000 years ago Califs of Baghdad built private playgrounds with automatic toys - one description was of animatronics: with automatic toys - one description was of animatronics: ponds with 2 metal mechanical singing birds, mercury pond ponds with 2 metal mechanical singing birds, mercury pond with gold boats, other singing birds, roaring lions, and other with gold boats, other singing birds, roaring lions, and other animatronic animalsanimatronic animals

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Mesoamerica (New World Western Hemisphere) gave Mesoamerica (New World Western Hemisphere) gave crops to the Old World, perhaps 3/5 of crops now in crops to the Old World, perhaps 3/5 of crops now in cultivation, but had little iron, no wheel or riding animals - cultivation, but had little iron, no wheel or riding animals - but ignited agricultural revolution in Europe, Asia, and but ignited agricultural revolution in Europe, Asia, and Africa - were considered miracle crops (corn and potatoes)Africa - were considered miracle crops (corn and potatoes)

Mayan Kings had royal chocolate makers (cacao bean)Mayan Kings had royal chocolate makers (cacao bean) Olmecs of southwestern Mexico considered mother Olmecs of southwestern Mexico considered mother

civilization of Mesoamerica (1500 - 600 B.C.): massive civilization of Mesoamerica (1500 - 600 B.C.): massive basalt (dark, volcanic rock) sculptures and monuments - basalt (dark, volcanic rock) sculptures and monuments - diet was for many ancient cultures the basic four: maize, diet was for many ancient cultures the basic four: maize, beans, chili peppers, and squash - agriculture good beans, chili peppers, and squash - agriculture good enough to support 8 - 10 million people enough to support 8 - 10 million people

Mayan (sometimes sacred) ball games were in almost Mayan (sometimes sacred) ball games were in almost every town (very serious, even to death) - game played every town (very serious, even to death) - game played from ~2000 B.C.from ~2000 B.C.

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RUBBERRUBBER Aztec version of ball game: 8" solid rubber ball, 1-4 players Aztec version of ball game: 8" solid rubber ball, 1-4 players

per team, hackey sack style ball control (no hands - can't hit per team, hackey sack style ball control (no hands - can't hit ground), ball goes through stone rings or markers or into a ground), ball goes through stone rings or markers or into a goal along court, ball's mass could disable a player. goal along court, ball's mass could disable a player. Technology: rubber ball could bounce several feet high Technology: rubber ball could bounce several feet high

Charles Goodyear in 1839 developed vulcanization process - Charles Goodyear in 1839 developed vulcanization process - natural latex sap from rubber trees when dried is soft, sticky, natural latex sap from rubber trees when dried is soft, sticky, and not elastic - vulcanization in 1839 heats latex, mixes it and not elastic - vulcanization in 1839 heats latex, mixes it with sulfur and gets hard bouncy rubber (tricky part is to with sulfur and gets hard bouncy rubber (tricky part is to prevent mixture from getting too brittle or too sticky) prevent mixture from getting too brittle or too sticky)

~1600 B.C. natives take sap from Castilla Elastica tree (white, ~1600 B.C. natives take sap from Castilla Elastica tree (white, viscous, liquid sap which gets brittle when dry) and mix with viscous, liquid sap which gets brittle when dry) and mix with juice from a Morning Glory vine (which wraps itself around juice from a Morning Glory vine (which wraps itself around latex tree) latex tree)

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RUBBER … continuedRUBBER … continued Recently MIT archeologist Dorothy Hosler and undergraduate Recently MIT archeologist Dorothy Hosler and undergraduate

Michael Tarkanian rediscovered technique: when they arrived, Michael Tarkanian rediscovered technique: when they arrived, found farmers still doing same age old technique - 10 minutes found farmers still doing same age old technique - 10 minutes after mixing latex + vine juice => rubber rises to surface and after mixing latex + vine juice => rubber rises to surface and farmer makes ball that bounces easily 6' in air farmer makes ball that bounces easily 6' in air

They brought ball, raw latex, and juice to MIT to a material They brought ball, raw latex, and juice to MIT to a material scientist (through nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy) scientist (through nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy) found unknown organic compound in latex that were no longer found unknown organic compound in latex that were no longer present in rubber - perhaps plasticizers that keep substance present in rubber - perhaps plasticizers that keep substance runny by preventing polymers from cross linking (like modern runny by preventing polymers from cross linking (like modern production) maybe vine juice dissolves plasticizers and lets production) maybe vine juice dissolves plasticizers and lets polymer molecules of latex form a rubbery mass polymer molecules of latex form a rubbery mass

In the Morning Glory juice they found sulfur compounds that In the Morning Glory juice they found sulfur compounds that might do this - only a few such entanglements would give might do this - only a few such entanglements would give rubberness rubberness

Olmecs made axes with rubber bands, painted with rubber, lip Olmecs made axes with rubber bands, painted with rubber, lip balmbalm

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Obsidian BladesObsidian Blades Obsidian a natural glass (the steel of that Obsidian a natural glass (the steel of that

world) world) They could precisely chip, then grind, They could precisely chip, then grind,

then pressure flake (still don't know how then pressure flake (still don't know how they did this part of process) until they did this part of process) until incredible blade for surgery, etc. incredible blade for surgery, etc.

Still sharpest of ancient or modern - Still sharpest of ancient or modern - better than our surgical blade - some better than our surgical blade - some surgeons are trying now to use obsidian surgeons are trying now to use obsidian once again once again

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1.1. Like the Banu Musa brothers, there were no Like the Banu Musa brothers, there were no ancient “scientists”? Name three professions ancient “scientists”? Name three professions that we get much of our scientific, that we get much of our scientific, technological breakthroughs from?technological breakthroughs from? astronomers, mathematicians, as well as engineersastronomers, mathematicians, as well as engineers

2.2. Some say the parents to the robot is the Some say the parents to the robot is the computer. But actual robots existed as early as computer. But actual robots existed as early as 1200 A.D. 1200 A.D. in the Turkish Artukid Dynasty.in the Turkish Artukid Dynasty.

3.3. Who brought corn to the Europeans?Who brought corn to the Europeans? Mesoamerica Mesoamerica

4.4. Who is at least one of the peoples we can thank Who is at least one of the peoples we can thank for chocolate? for chocolate? Mayans Mayans

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#5 #5 … … QUESTIONS: QUESTIONS: … continued… continued

5.5. What four foods were the staples of many ancient South What four foods were the staples of many ancient South American cultures?American cultures?maize, beans, chili peppers, and squashmaize, beans, chili peppers, and squash

6.6. Which of these four foods (or combinations of them) Which of these four foods (or combinations of them) include the four basic types of food? include the four basic types of food? proteins proteins beansbeans starch starch maize, beansmaize, beans oil oil maize, chili peppersmaize, chili pepperscarbohydrates carbohydrates maize, beans, chili peppers, and squashmaize, beans, chili peppers, and squash ? ?

7.7. What secret did the MIT researchers find that allowed What secret did the MIT researchers find that allowed ancient Aztecs to make rubber harden just the right ancient Aztecs to make rubber harden just the right amount in about 10 minutes? [Hint: anybody can get the amount in about 10 minutes? [Hint: anybody can get the rubber tree sap – the trick is to keep it from getting hard, rubber tree sap – the trick is to keep it from getting hard, yet not letting it stay too sticky.]?yet not letting it stay too sticky.]?mixing latex + vine juicemixing latex + vine juice

8.8. What is an ancient technology that we are just about to What is an ancient technology that we are just about to re-discover in modern medical practices? re-discover in modern medical practices? Obsidian surgical blades Obsidian surgical blades

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#6#6

Mayans: in Yucatan ~2000 B.C. - prominence & Mayans: in Yucatan ~2000 B.C. - prominence & spread out by 250 A.D., limestone structures spread out by 250 A.D., limestone structures easily worked with stone age technology when easily worked with stone age technology when mined, then harden, also took crumbled limestone mined, then harden, also took crumbled limestone + clay = a kind of + clay = a kind of concreteconcrete - made cities which - made cities which had observatory, temple pyramids, and palaces had observatory, temple pyramids, and palaces (sometimes connected by causeways)(sometimes connected by causeways)

Acoustics: the largest ball court (Toltec Mayan) Acoustics: the largest ball court (Toltec Mayan) was 545' x 225' with 27' high walls, you could was 545' x 225' with 27' high walls, you could hear a whisper from the end zone - at the huge hear a whisper from the end zone - at the huge Castillo a hand clap at bottom could be heard at Castillo a hand clap at bottom could be heard at toptop

Aztecs knew human anatomy (named all organs Aztecs knew human anatomy (named all organs and knew circulatory system) well before William and knew circulatory system) well before William Harvey of 1600s A.D.Harvey of 1600s A.D.

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Incas, 1st century A.D. in Peru: conquered largest Incas, 1st century A.D. in Peru: conquered largest group in western hemisphere, dominance lasted a group in western hemisphere, dominance lasted a century and stretched from Ecuador to Andes, did century and stretched from Ecuador to Andes, did not have wheeled vehicles or ridden animals, over a not have wheeled vehicles or ridden animals, over a million in communist-like socio-economic structuremillion in communist-like socio-economic structure

Incas were best engineers: road system like Incas were best engineers: road system like Romans but only for foot and pack animals, Romans but only for foot and pack animals, included tunnels through mountains, levees across included tunnels through mountains, levees across swamps, and carved steps in slopes - principal lord swamps, and carved steps in slopes - principal lord of a province used a Khipu (knotted string) for of a province used a Khipu (knotted string) for mathematics and remembering (a precursor to mathematics and remembering (a precursor to writing)writing)

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AfricaAfrica Most likely Most likely birthplace of homosapiens and birthplace of homosapiens and

first toolsfirst tools, Sudan (Kushites) is one of the oldest , Sudan (Kushites) is one of the oldest continuous centers of civilized life continuous centers of civilized life

1st millenium B.C. made hydraulic system for 1st millenium B.C. made hydraulic system for irrigation agriculture - also iron metallurgy that irrigation agriculture - also iron metallurgy that still exists todaystill exists today

100 mile wall (800 sq. miles) built (between 800 100 mile wall (800 sq. miles) built (between 800 A.D. and 1400 B.C. (may be 2nd largest human-A.D. and 1400 B.C. (may be 2nd largest human-made structure to China's Great Wall), stretched made structure to China's Great Wall), stretched end to end with 500 communal enclosures, would end to end with 500 communal enclosures, would be 10,000 miles, 75' reddish banks, builders be 10,000 miles, 75' reddish banks, builders moved more than largest Egytian pyramid, wall moved more than largest Egytian pyramid, wall may have been spiritual boundary like yellow line may have been spiritual boundary like yellow line on highway for not passingon highway for not passing

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1.1. Who made some of the first causeways for walking throughout Who made some of the first causeways for walking throughout a city above street level? a city above street level? Mayans: in Yucatan ~2000 B.C.Mayans: in Yucatan ~2000 B.C.

2.2. How much larger than a football field was the Toltec court How much larger than a football field was the Toltec court where a whisper could be heard from one end to the other? where a whisper could be heard from one end to the other? Could we do that today? How?Could we do that today? How? About twice the length, we could make same acoustics with the perfect geometry About twice the length, we could make same acoustics with the perfect geometry

3.3. Ancient Aztecs and Incas were very advanced in some areas, Ancient Aztecs and Incas were very advanced in some areas, but not at all in some others. Where were they interested? but not at all in some others. Where were they interested? Where did the Incas seem not to spend energy?Where did the Incas seem not to spend energy? Aztecs knew human anatomy. Incas made great roads and tunnels, but no wheeled carts or Aztecs knew human anatomy. Incas made great roads and tunnels, but no wheeled carts or ridden animals.ridden animals.

4.4. What group may be the first of humankind, and perhaps the What group may be the first of humankind, and perhaps the record holders for continuing a civilized way of life?record holders for continuing a civilized way of life? Kushites of Africa Kushites of Africa

5.5. What may be the 2nd largest man-made structure ever built in What may be the 2nd largest man-made structure ever built in recorded history?recorded history?Kushite 100 mile Wall (if extended would be 10,000 miles) Kushite 100 mile Wall (if extended would be 10,000 miles)

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#7#7

India: India: stonewarestoneware (3rd millenium B.C.) centuries later in China, (3rd millenium B.C.) centuries later in China, little warfare: little warfare: same weights & measures for > 1,000 yearssame weights & measures for > 1,000 years

ChinaChina 2nd millenium B.C.: 2nd millenium B.C.: GUNPOWDERGUNPOWDER (salt peter, charcoal, sulfur - (salt peter, charcoal, sulfur -

Daoist alchemists - many blew up mixing it - published Daoist alchemists - many blew up mixing it - published not to not to mix with arsenic, since could light on firemix with arsenic, since could light on fire), ), COMPASSCOMPASS, , PAPER/PRINTINGPAPER/PRINTING, , cast ironcast iron, , porcelainporcelain, , stern post & ruddersstern post & rudders for for ships, ships, canal lock gatescanal lock gates, , stirrups & harnessesstirrups & harnesses for horses, for horses, fishing fishing reelsreels, , hot air balloonshot air balloons, , seismographseismograph, , whiskeywhiskey, , gimbalsgimbals, , umbrellaumbrella, , crank handlescrank handles, , kiteskites, , mechanical clocksmechanical clocks, paper , paper money, convertible bank notes, agricultural row cultivations, money, convertible bank notes, agricultural row cultivations, iron ploughiron plough, , seed drillseed drill, fantastical , fantastical fireworksfireworks, magic mirrors, , magic mirrors, rocket propelled toy called "earth rat"rocket propelled toy called "earth rat"

1040 A.D. Tseng Kung-Liang published formula for gunpowder 1040 A.D. Tseng Kung-Liang published formula for gunpowder for for fire weaponsfire weapons: incendiary arrows & bullets, burning bomb : incendiary arrows & bullets, burning bomb with hook for wood, trebuchet bomb, hand grenadewith hook for wood, trebuchet bomb, hand grenade

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China … continuedChina … continued 1288 A.D.1288 A.D. flame throwers became guns, then a massive group flame throwers became guns, then a massive group

of flame throwers called "the ingenious mobile ever victorious of flame throwers called "the ingenious mobile ever victorious poison fire rack", & then a 36 barrel cartwheel gun carried by a poison fire rack", & then a 36 barrel cartwheel gun carried by a mule, & then all sorts of bombs (mule, & then all sorts of bombs (even one with human even one with human excrementexcrement))

Stirrup caused Knight in Europe, but gunpowder caused Stirrup caused Knight in Europe, but gunpowder caused downfall downfall

4th century B.C. iron4th century B.C. iron 3rd century B.C. annealing (good plough shares3rd century B.C. annealing (good plough shares, swords, even , swords, even

iron buildings, then later, good hoes: major efficiency of iron buildings, then later, good hoes: major efficiency of farming labor - other tilling of fields was perhaps mankind's farming labor - other tilling of fields was perhaps mankind's single greatest inefficiency of all time before good ploughs and single greatest inefficiency of all time before good ploughs and hoes)hoes)

2nd century B.C. good 2nd century B.C. good steelsteel (good hand tools: chisels, drills, (good hand tools: chisels, drills, axes etc. - not until 1300's in Europe)axes etc. - not until 1300's in Europe)

OntogenyOntogenyRecapitulatesRecapitulatesPhylogenyPhylogeny

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China … continuedChina … continued Bessemer process of Bessemer process of making steel by blowing making steel by blowing

oxygen on molten iron to remove carbonoxygen on molten iron to remove carbon (cast iron (cast iron has 4.5% carbon, whereas steel has hardly any) has 4.5% carbon, whereas steel has hardly any) 1856 by Bessemer in England, was earlier done by 1856 by Bessemer in England, was earlier done by William Kelly in Eddyville, Kentucky in 1845, who William Kelly in Eddyville, Kentucky in 1845, who got it from some Chinese from 2,000 years earliergot it from some Chinese from 2,000 years earlier

1863 Siemens Process, England - 1,000 years 1863 Siemens Process, England - 1,000 years earlier in China by General Qi Jiguang - good steel earlier in China by General Qi Jiguang - good steel for sabers, etc. by baking cast iron overnight with for sabers, etc. by baking cast iron overnight with wrought ironwrought iron

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China … continuedChina … continued China (continued): 1st century A.D., iron China (continued): 1st century A.D., iron suspension suspension

bridgebridge (1809 iron Merrimac Suspension Bridge) (1809 iron Merrimac Suspension Bridge) China (continued): China (continued): iron chain drivesiron chain drives: 976 A.D. Chang : 976 A.D. Chang

Ssu-HsiAn (large clock), his successor, 1090 A.D., Su Ssu-HsiAn (large clock), his successor, 1090 A.D., Su Sung (large astronomical clock called the "Celestial Sung (large astronomical clock called the "Celestial Ladder")Ladder")

1897 European bicycle uses chain drive (ironical 1897 European bicycle uses chain drive (ironical that Chinese now use bicycle for much that Chinese now use bicycle for much transportation and are the originators by over 900 transportation and are the originators by over 900 years)years)

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1.1. We argue every few years over standard We argue every few years over standard weights and measures. How long did the weights and measures. How long did the ancient Indians keep their system? Did ancient Indians keep their system? Did they fight during that time?they fight during that time?They had little warfare and standard weights & measures for over 1,000 years.They had little warfare and standard weights & measures for over 1,000 years.

2.2. What should you NOT mix with What should you NOT mix with gunpowder – and why?gunpowder – and why?Don’t mix arsenic and gunpowder because it can light while mixing.Don’t mix arsenic and gunpowder because it can light while mixing.

3.3. When was the bomb with human poop When was the bomb with human poop invented?invented?It was invented in 1288 A.D. in China.It was invented in 1288 A.D. in China.

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#7 #7 … … QUESTIONS: QUESTIONS: … continued… continued

4.4. During the time China found out how to fight with During the time China found out how to fight with gunpowder, she also had a very inefficient method gunpowder, she also had a very inefficient method of tilling fields. Some historians claim that this is of tilling fields. Some historians claim that this is the greatest waste of humankind’s energies of all the greatest waste of humankind’s energies of all time. How long was it between the invention of time. How long was it between the invention of gunpowder and the invention of the plowshare?gunpowder and the invention of the plowshare?From the invention of gunpowder (2,000 B.C.) to the invention of good steel for From the invention of gunpowder (2,000 B.C.) to the invention of good steel for

plowshares (300 B.C.) it was 1,700 years.plowshares (300 B.C.) it was 1,700 years. 5.5. How do you make steel from iron?How do you make steel from iron?

You blow oxygen on molten iron to remove most of the 4.5% carbon.You blow oxygen on molten iron to remove most of the 4.5% carbon. 6.6. If America and the west was not first to find ways If America and the west was not first to find ways

to make tools, why, in your opinion was the to make tools, why, in your opinion was the Industrial Revolution (which we are still in) here in Industrial Revolution (which we are still in) here in the west? the west? Because the freedom to experiment in America led to many inventions.Because the freedom to experiment in America led to many inventions.

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#8#8

China (continued):China (continued): Buddhist “Diamond Sutra", first known printed book, 868 Buddhist “Diamond Sutra", first known printed book, 868

A.D. - 17.5' x 10.5" scroll, translated from Sanskrit (from A.D. - 17.5' x 10.5" scroll, translated from Sanskrit (from India) into Chinese, most other printed materials were India) into Chinese, most other printed materials were calendars and horoscopes (much like today)calendars and horoscopes (much like today)

Writing is perhaps technology which most unifies a Writing is perhaps technology which most unifies a civilization (but it also had main function by warring civilization (but it also had main function by warring groups to facilitate enslavement of other human beings - groups to facilitate enslavement of other human beings - Claude Levi-Strauss)Claude Levi-Strauss)

China (continued): writing from at least 2nd millenium B.C. China (continued): writing from at least 2nd millenium B.C. Writing in Mesopotamia & Egypt at same time - mostly for Writing in Mesopotamia & Egypt at same time - mostly for

religious divination - before paper - Egypt: grass stalks, religious divination - before paper - Egypt: grass stalks, Mesopotamia: clay tablets, Indians: tree leaves, Mesopotamia: clay tablets, Indians: tree leaves, Europeans: sheepskins, early Chinese: tortoise shells & Europeans: sheepskins, early Chinese: tortoise shells & shoulder blades of oxenshoulder blades of oxen

HistoryHistoryisisSynchronousSynchronous

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Paper:Paper: China: Paper, 140 - 87 B.C., from hemp, China: Paper, 140 - 87 B.C., from hemp,

tomb in Siam in Shin Shee province, 1,000 tomb in Siam in Shin Shee province, 1,000 years before Europeansyears before Europeans

China: 2nd century paper from bark + rags China: 2nd century paper from bark + rags + wheat + other mixtures, suitable for + wheat + other mixtures, suitable for brush strokes, clothing, shoes, toilet tissue, brush strokes, clothing, shoes, toilet tissue, wallpaper, kites, origami, umbrellas, moneywallpaper, kites, origami, umbrellas, money

India paper: 7th century A.D.India paper: 7th century A.D. Islam paper: 8th century A.D.Islam paper: 8th century A.D.

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Arabs sold paper to Europeans at high cost for Arabs sold paper to Europeans at high cost for 500 years but didn't tell process500 years but didn't tell process

China (continued): Printing (actual origins are China (continued): Printing (actual origins are lost), perhaps around the year 0! In 206 B.C. in lost), perhaps around the year 0! In 206 B.C. in Han dynasty they rubbed stone tablets for Han dynasty they rubbed stone tablets for printing, 581 A.D. in Sui dynasty they block printing, 581 A.D. in Sui dynasty they block printed from single wooden board, 1041 A.D. printed from single wooden board, 1041 A.D. they used they used movable typemovable type by Bi Sheng with clay by Bi Sheng with clay blocks on iron plates, needed 360,000 pieces of blocks on iron plates, needed 360,000 pieces of type for serious printingtype for serious printing

Gutenberg in 1456 A.D. prints Bible - but by that Gutenberg in 1456 A.D. prints Bible - but by that time there were Chinese libraries with books that time there were Chinese libraries with books that were older then, than Gutenberg's Bible is nowwere older then, than Gutenberg's Bible is now - - for every book of songs that we have now, there for every book of songs that we have now, there are 10,000 Chinese textsare 10,000 Chinese texts

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1.1. * The use of * The use of firefire started war – and civilized man. started war – and civilized man.* The use of the * The use of the compasscompass allowed for world wide dominance – and allowed for world wide dominance – and world wide community.world wide community.* The use of * The use of paper/printing paper/printing allowed for mass deception through allowed for mass deception through propaganda – and for common people to learn.propaganda – and for common people to learn.* The use of * The use of ironiron made it possible to make swords – and plowshares. made it possible to make swords – and plowshares.

What is Claude Levi-Strauss saying about the use of What is Claude Levi-Strauss saying about the use of paper/printingpaper/printing??If untruth is printed, it enslaves; if truth is printed, it frees.If untruth is printed, it enslaves; if truth is printed, it frees.

2.2. How old is Gutenberg’s Bible? What is Teresi’s How old is Gutenberg’s Bible? What is Teresi’s comparison of European to Chinese printing?comparison of European to Chinese printing?Gutenberg’s Bible is about 600 years old. When Europeans printed with moveable Gutenberg’s Bible is about 600 years old. When Europeans printed with moveable type there were libraries that were as old then as Gutenberg’s Bible is now.type there were libraries that were as old then as Gutenberg’s Bible is now.

3.3. In your opinion does technology have nothing to do with In your opinion does technology have nothing to do with humankind getting along or fighting?humankind getting along or fighting?No, our consciousness is the determinant of peace or war. No, our consciousness is the determinant of peace or war.

4.4. In your opinion, why do many American text books speak In your opinion, why do many American text books speak of Gutenberg’s printing as a milestone?of Gutenberg’s printing as a milestone?American textbooks speak of European origins because they are our predominant American textbooks speak of European origins because they are our predominant ancestors.ancestors.

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#9 Ancient Science #9 Ancient Science SummarySummary

* The use of * The use of firefire started war – and civilized man. started war – and civilized man.* The use of the * The use of the compasscompass allowed for world wide allowed for world wide dominance – and world wide community.dominance – and world wide community.* The use of * The use of paper/printing paper/printing allowed for mass deception allowed for mass deception through propaganda – and for common people to learn.through propaganda – and for common people to learn.* The use of * The use of ironiron made it possible to make swords – and made it possible to make swords – and plowshares.plowshares.

Technology did not change our consciousness … our Technology did not change our consciousness … our consciousness made technology. And when we are consciousness made technology. And when we are ready for the technology (ie. ready for the technology (ie. “The systematic “The systematic treatment of an art.”treatment of an art.”) of harmony or peace, we will ) of harmony or peace, we will discover it right under our noses.discover it right under our noses.

Vulcanization of rubber was 1,000 years before GoodyearVulcanization of rubber was 1,000 years before Goodyear

Bessemerization of iron was 1,000 years before BessemerBessemerization of iron was 1,000 years before Bessemer

DiscoveriesDiscoveriesGetGetLostLost

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#9 Ancient Science Summary … #9 Ancient Science Summary … continuedcontinued

Saturday Night Live did sketch of aliens Saturday Night Live did sketch of aliens arriving on earth and demanding earthlings arriving on earth and demanding earthlings to bow down - but to bow down - but aliens were not as aliens were not as advancedadvanced - they had not even created their - they had not even created their own spaceship - they had found it own spaceship - they had found it

Though the Though the SpaniardsSpaniards had better weapons, had better weapons, the Aztecs watched Spaniards pour oil on the Aztecs watched Spaniards pour oil on wounds while the Aztecs already had wounds while the Aztecs already had antibioticsantibiotics

Chinese had Chinese had toothpastetoothpaste when when many many Europeans barely had teethEuropeans barely had teeth

Those who Rule …Those who Rule …have greater weapons.have greater weapons.Those who Lead …Those who Lead …have greater wisdom.have greater wisdom.

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#9 Ancient Science Summary … #9 Ancient Science Summary … continuedcontinued

Chinese had shipbuilding: fore & aft rigging, Chinese had shipbuilding: fore & aft rigging, lateen sail, stern & post rudder, and water tight lateen sail, stern & post rudder, and water tight bulkheads - they also had good compasses - so bulkheads - they also had good compasses - so they could have outdone Columbus they could have outdone Columbus

In fact while Columbus got funds, Zheng He, In fact while Columbus got funds, Zheng He, chief admiral of emperor Ming, sent fleet of ships chief admiral of emperor Ming, sent fleet of ships with thousands of sailors, canons, etc. to India with thousands of sailors, canons, etc. to India and Africa - he is the greatest explorer of and Africa - he is the greatest explorer of exploration period exploration period

Chinese did not go to New World, or else we Chinese did not go to New World, or else we would have different ancestors!would have different ancestors!

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#9 #9 Ancient Science Summary Ancient Science Summary … … QUESTIONS:QUESTIONS:

1.1. What is the point of the Saturday Night Live referenceWhat is the point of the Saturday Night Live reference??The point is that power – in this case from guns – determines the ruling class – not advanced The point is that power – in this case from guns – determines the ruling class – not advanced

consciousness or culture.consciousness or culture. 2.2. Where is Teresi going with his statements that both rubber and Where is Teresi going with his statements that both rubber and

steel were really discovered 1,000 years earlier than our steel were really discovered 1,000 years earlier than our history books traditionally report?history books traditionally report?Teresi is reminding us that our ancestors already invented great things much Teresi is reminding us that our ancestors already invented great things much earlier that were forgotten, then later, remembered.earlier that were forgotten, then later, remembered.

3.3. Can you tell who the conquerers were, by the author's Can you tell who the conquerers were, by the author's insinuation - the Aztecs or the Spaniards?insinuation - the Aztecs or the Spaniards?The Spaniards were the conquerors.The Spaniards were the conquerors.

4.4. Alfred W. Crosby, Alfred W. Crosby, Ecological Imperialism: The Biological Ecological Imperialism: The Biological Expansion of Europe 900 - 1900Expansion of Europe 900 - 1900 - claims 2 centers of - claims 2 centers of invention transformed history - 1) Middle East: Sumeria and invention transformed history - 1) Middle East: Sumeria and successors 2) Mexico: Olmecs and others - he says not one of successors 2) Mexico: Olmecs and others - he says not one of dozen most important inventions come from Europe - it was dozen most important inventions come from Europe - it was just a transfer station. What do you think Teresi is going to say just a transfer station. What do you think Teresi is going to say to this, based on his statement about toothpaste?to this, based on his statement about toothpaste?Teresi would agree. He also sees Europe as a place that united East and West; Teresi would agree. He also sees Europe as a place that united East and West; but he doesn’t see it as an originator.but he doesn’t see it as an originator.

1 ancient science --- the lost discoveries from the beginning of recorded history to the renaissance...

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