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Ancient History: America's Prehistoric Civilizations--The Mound Builders

28 minutes 57 seconds
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Forest with many trees. The ground is bumpy with several mounds of green grass between each of the trees. Text reads, “America’s Prehistoric Civilizations: The Mound Builders.”

"Ancient History: America's Prehistoric Civilizations--The Mound Builders" explores the sophisticated societies of mound-building cultures in North America's eastern regions. Narrated by Zay Harding, the video reveals how early archaeologists initially misinterpreted these civilizations as primitive. Hernando de Soto's overlooked report of a flourishing city near present-day St. Louis is revisited, validating the cultural richness of the Mound Builders. This segment details the rise and fall of these civilizations, from the enigmatic Poverty Point to the influential Mississippian culture. Key educational concepts include the interplay between geography, social organization, and innovation in prehistoric America. The video highlights the archaeological significance of the mounds, their ceremonial and practical purposes, and their architectural prowess that rivals global ancient feats. This engaging exploration enhances the understanding of America's diverse cultural history and underscores the impact of archaeology in uncovering historical truths.

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Runtime: 28 minutes 57 seconds

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ASL
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