DNA Analysis Unearths a Diverse Frontier Society in Early Colonial Delaware

In the 17th century, life along the shores of what we now know as Delaware was a complex interplay of European settlers and enslaved Africans struggling to make a living on the rugged frontier. Recent archaeological discoveries and groundbreaking DNA research near Rehoboth Beach are rewriting the history of Delaware and early America, shedding light on a more culturally diverse and intricate society than previously assumed.

Approximately a decade ago, archaeologists stumbled upon a burial site at Avery's Rest, near today's Rehoboth Beach Yacht and Country Club. This site yielded 11 skeletons of individuals with both European and African heritage, marking a significant moment in historical research. Experts from the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History embarked on a journey to decode the genetic story within these remains, resulting in a groundbreaking report published this summer in the scientific journal Current Biology. This research has unveiled the extent of the slave trade and the dire working conditions faced by the residents of colonial Delaware.

Leading the DNA analysis project was anthropological geneticist Raquel Fleskes, who made a remarkable discovery. Among the 11 bodies found, three were of African descent—two adult men and a child, likely enslaved during the late 1600s. Most notably, the research showed that one of the African individuals was the father of the African child, making this site the earliest identification of kinship between individuals of African descent in North American colonial times.

When archaeologists found evidence of a 17th-century settlement at a site known as Avery's Rest near Rehoboth Beach, they knew a house should be nearby. Before finding the foundation of a structure, experts uncovered 11 colonial-era burials, and the oldest known gravesite of African Americans discovered in Delaware. 

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Traditionally, historical accounts have portrayed enslaved Africans as experiencing significant family separations during enslavement. However, this discovery challenges that narrative by revealing a father and son buried together, providing invaluable insight into the relationships of the time.

Moreover, the report revealed that the hardships faced were shared not only by individuals but by families and communities working closely together. The graves of European individuals also exhibited biological connections, including a grandmother, mother, and child, all displaying signs of strenuous labor far more severe than previously believed.

"Avery's Rest," as Raquel Fleskes notes, "places the lives of people of African descent, the lives of children, and of women as main players in this narrative of early colonial Delaware." Contrary to the historical focus on white male migration during this period, this DNA research highlights the significance of family and kinship in surviving and thriving in the frontier region.

Aside from reshaping our understanding of colonial life, the discovery at Avery's Rest is particularly crucial due to the limited archaeological sites in Delaware from this era. Few sites have yielded preserved human skeletons, especially those of African descent, who made up only around 5% of the population in 1700. The excavation of Avery's Rest, however, opened a door to a wealth of historical information.

Objects, including pipes, ceramic vessels and plates and tools from the archaeological dig of Avery's Rest are displayed at the State of Delaware Center for Material Culture in Dover. Study of the site - which included multiple well-preserved graves- is acclaimed as providing a fuller picture of life in colonial Delaware and of its inhabitants. 

WILLIAM BRETZGER, DELAWARE NEWS JOURNAL-USA TODAY

Avery's Rest, in the late 1600s and early 1700s, was situated in a frontier region claimed by both Maryland and the colony of Pennsylvania/New York, leading to confusion and disputes among landowners. This period also coincided with the height of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, territorial conflicts, indigenous displacement, and the cultivation of emerging crops like tobacco.

John Avery and his family, who farmed tobacco in the area from 1675 to 1725, played a significant role in shaping this history. Despite Avery's reputation as a boisterous character, he contributed to the emergence of colonial agriculture, including the growth of what is believed to be some of the first imported peach trees in America.

The Avery's Rest discovery has shifted previous assumptions about labor during colonial times, highlighting the involvement of various classes of people in strenuous work and suggesting a lesser degree of racial separation than previously thought.

Although Delaware was not directly connected to the trans-Atlantic slave trade, the presence of three African individuals at the site underscores the early origins of slavery in colonial America.

As researchers continue their work, they hope to uncover more details about the individuals buried at Avery's Rest, their origins, and their interactions. While DNA analysis has pinpointed the European individuals' roots in northwest Europe, tracing the African individuals' ancestry has proven more challenging. Efforts are also underway to determine if any of the European individuals are related to the Avery family, although conclusive proof remains elusive.

Regrettably, the scarcity of archaeological sites from this period in Delaware is compounded by the encroachment of development. Many sites that could reveal critical historical information have been lost to urban sprawl. This underscores the urgency of preserving and excavating "at-risk" areas before they too vanish.

The future of the Avery's Rest project involves engaging the community to unearth archival records and delve deeper into the stories of these individuals, their origins, and their relationships. By using DNA to visualize these historical narratives, we continue to uncover and rewrite the hidden histories of colonial America, offering a more complete and nuanced understanding of our past.

As anthropological geneticist Raquel Fleskes aptly put it, "It's amazing that DNA can visualize these stories." In the process, we not only rewrite history but also honor the lives and experiences of those who have long been forgotten.

Ancient Ancestor Worship Site Unearthed in Northern Peru: A Glimpse into Pre-Incan Rituals

In a remarkable archaeological discovery, a joint team of Peruvian and Japanese archaeologists has recently uncovered a pre-Incan site dedicated to ancestor worship in northern Peru. This significant find, which includes burial chambers, human remains, and ceramic offerings, sheds light on the rich cultural heritage of this region and provides valuable insights into the rituals and practices of ancient societies.

The archaeological site, dating back to the Wari period and estimated to be between 800 and 1000 years old, is situated in the Cajamarca region, approximately 900 kilometers (560 miles) north of Lima. Japanese archaeologist Shinya Watanabe, who is a professor at Nanzan University in Japan, shared his excitement about the discovery, stating, "We have discovered an archaeological site of the Wari period with an antiquity of between 800 and 1000 years AD."

What makes this site particularly fascinating is the presence of two burial chambers, each containing two levels and five niches in the walls. These niches served as repositories for offerings such as mollusk shells, ceramic fragments, and a tripod dish with three conical supports. Additionally, a bundle containing a female character, a black Wari ceremonial vessel, two musical ceramic wind instruments, and two copper fasteners were also found, adding to the treasure trove of historical artifacts.

Watanabe explained the significance of this discovery, saying, "It is a great find because the archaeologists were looking for evidence of the Wari culture." The Wari culture, which thrived between the 7th and 13th centuries in what is now modern-day Peru, played a crucial role in shaping the region's history. However, by 1100 AD, the Wari civilization was absorbed by the emerging Inca Empire.

The Jequetepeque valley in the province of San Miguel in Cajamarca, where this discovery was made, is believed to have been a ceremonial center dedicated to the veneration of ancestors. "Many people of multiple origins lived here. It was a ceremonial center dedicated to the cult of the ancestors," explained Watanabe.

Judith Padilla, the head of Cajamarca's culture office, emphasized the importance of these findings, stating that they provide insights into "the lifestyle and ritual practices" of the ancient societies that once inhabited the region. This newfound knowledge allows us to better understand the cultural and religious customs of the past, helping us piece together the puzzle of our shared history.

The discovery was made possible by the Project of Archaeological Investigation (PIA) Terlen-La Bomba and covers an area of approximately 24 hectares (60 acres). The Ministry of Culture has noted that the primary objective of this research is to gain a deeper understanding of the socio-political system of the Cajamarca culture during the Middle Horizon (900–1000 years AD) and its connections with the Wari civilization.

In conclusion, the unearthing of this pre-Hispanic ancestor worship site in northern Peru is a testament to the importance of archaeological research in uncovering the secrets of our past. As scholars continue to investigate and analyze the artifacts and remains discovered at this site, we can anticipate a deeper understanding of the ancient cultures that once thrived in this region, enriching our appreciation of the history and heritage of Peru.

Ancient Indian Terracotta Figurines Found at Megalithic Dolmen Shed Light on Karnataka's Mystical Past

In a recent archaeological excavation near Moodbidri in Dakshina Kannada, India, a remarkable discovery has stirred excitement among historians and archaeologists. Unique terracotta figurines, in various states of preservation and accompanied by bone and iron pieces, were unearthed at the megalithic dolmen site of Mudu Konaje. These ancient artifacts provide a rare glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of coastal Karnataka and are believed to date back to the period between 800-700 B.C.

The discovery of these terracotta figurines is credited to the diligent efforts of historian T. Murugeshi, a retired Associate Professor from the Department of Ancient History and Archaeology at Mulki Sunder Ram Shetty College, Shirva, in Udupi district. According to Mr. Murugeshi, these figurines are of great significance, shedding light on the Bhoota cult, or Daiva Aradhane, a religious and cultural phenomenon of coastal Karnataka.

Among the eight figurines found at Mudu Konaje, two depict cow bovines, one represents a mother goddess, two are peacocks, one is a horse, another is the hand of a mother goddess, and the final one remains an enigmatic object yet to be fully deciphered.

The megalithic site at Mudu Konaje was originally discovered and reported by historian and researcher Pundikai Ganapayya Bhat in the 1980s. Situated approximately 8 kilometers from Moodbidri along the Moodbidri-Shirthady Road, this site once boasted nine dolmens on the slope of a stone hill. However, only two dolmens remain intact, while the others have succumbed to the ravages of time.

The megalithic culture is distinguished by its diverse burial practices and the use of iron in ancient India, with dolmens being a notable example. Under a dolmen, massive stone slabs known as orthostats were arranged in a clockwise order to create a square chamber, which was then sealed with another substantial stone slab serving as a capstone. Typically, a round or U-shaped entrance, referred to as a port-hole, was fashioned on the eastern slab. These dolmens went by various names in South India, such as Kalmane, Pandavara Mane, Moriyara Mane, Moriyara Betta, Panara Arekallu, Madmal Gunda, Kandi Kone, Kottya, Toonth Kal, Pandavara Kal, and many others, attesting to their widespread presence among the populace.

The terracotta figurines discovered at Mudu Konaje within a megalithic context are an exceptional find in the Indian archaeological landscape. These figurines were situated inside the dolmens but had been previously disturbed by treasure hunters. Notably, the cow bovines found in these dolmens are pivotal in establishing the chronology of the dolmens themselves. Furthermore, these terracotta artifacts offer valuable insights into the Bhoota cult or Daiva Aradhane practices of coastal Karnataka, where the cow bovine, or cow goddess, finds intriguing parallels with megalithic terracotta figurines discovered in Malampuzha, Kerala, and even ancient Egypt. These specific terracotta figurines from Mudu Konaje are believed to date back to the period between 800-700 B.C.

One of the cow bovines discovered is a meticulously crafted figurine, standing approximately 9 cm in height and 5 cm in width. It exhibits a distinct bull's head atop a solid, handmade human body. Two breasts, attached using the applique method, confirm its feminine identity. Notably, a groove runs from below the right arm to the left side of the neck, while both arms are present but with broken hands. The left arm is oriented toward the front, and the figurine features a flattened, wide belly with a round section below it, suggestive of legs. A unique elongated round bun at the back of the head serves as headgear, adding to its enigmatic charm.

The second cow bovine figurine, measuring about 7.5 cm in height and 4 cm in width, is another finely crafted artifact. It boasts a bovine snout and distinct archetypal headgear. Applique ornamentation adorns the figurine around the neck and below the belly, while the base features a prop to help it stand upright.

Among the other figurines, two peacocks stand out. One is a solid peacock measuring approximately 11 cm in height and 7 cm in width, its feathers seemingly dipping towards the earth. The second peacock, however, is unique, with an elongated head designed to be inserted into a shallow body, which regrettably remains missing. Nevertheless, the feathers are meticulously designed to point upward.

Lastly, a mother goddess figurine, though lacking a head, hands, and legs, offers a tantalizing glimpse into the artistic craftsmanship of the time.

The discovery of these terracotta figurines at Mudu Konaje has not only added to our understanding of megalithic cultures in India but has also opened a window into the spiritual and cultural practices of coastal Karnataka. These ancient artifacts serve as a bridge connecting us to a bygone era where art, religion, and society intertwined in intriguing ways. As further research and analysis unfold, we can expect more revelations about the Bhoota cult and Daiva Aradhane, shedding light on the mysteries of ancient coastal Karnataka.

A Guide to Egypt: Millennia of Mysteries Along the Nile

The Pyramids, the Valley of the Kings, and the Nile—these iconic wonders have beckoned travelers for centuries. But if you're planning a journey to Egypt, make sure you do it right. In this article, we'll take you on a captivating adventure down the historic River Nile, exploring the marvels of ancient and modern Egypt.

Cruising the Tranquil Nile

Picture this: It's a serene morning just before 7 a.m., and the Nile flows peacefully, mirroring the clear sky. The usual chorus of children splashing and playing by the riverbanks has temporarily quieted, leaving the river undisturbed. Sipping on a cup of coffee, you gaze at the palm-fringed shores, a stark contrast to the vast desert beyond. It's a moment of tranquility and reflection that makes you feel connected to Egypt's rich history.

As you drift along, you can't help but imagine the legendary Queen Nefertari or the enigmatic Cleopatra embarking on similar journeys. The River Nile, with its lush banks, has borne witness to millennia of life and history. This thought alone is enough to boggle the mind, as Egypt's history stretches back over 3,000 years.

Surprisingly, this isn't the most astonishing fact you'll encounter during your week-long tour of Egypt. Still, it serves as a starting point to grasp the overwhelming grandeur of this country. In 2023, Egypt has surged to the top of travelers' bucket lists, setting new records for visitor numbers.

Visiting Egypt is both mentally and physically stimulating, especially during the mid-40s Celsius temperatures. But regardless of the season, Egypt's bustling cities like Cairo, more populous than Beijing or Mumbai, can be a challenge to navigate.

Cairo's Evolution and Challenges

Cairo, in the midst of a colossal urban regeneration project, is experiencing a transformation. A new administrative capital, New Cairo, is being constructed 45 kilometers from the current city center, and plans to eliminate slums are underway. This transformation has brought about a flurry of construction and road closures, challenging even experienced locals.

The legacy of the Arab Spring uprising, which toppled President Hosni Mubarak over a decade ago, still lingers in the form of stringent security measures. Bomb-sniffing dogs and metal detectors greet travelers at airports, tourist sites, and hotels. Venturing out without a guide and driver is discouraged.

While this environment might be intimidating for some, it's the reality of Egypt today. Thanks to experienced tour operators like Abercrombie & Kent, travelers receive a seamless experience. From handling entry visas to assisting with transfers and check-ins, they ensure that your journey is as smooth as possible.

Unlocking Egypt's Mysteries

Your journey through Egypt begins at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, where an Egyptologist guide introduces you to the replica of the Rosetta Stone. This stone was the key to deciphering hieroglyphs, allowing scholars to unlock the secrets of ancient Egypt. Without it, over 3,000 years of history might have remained shrouded in mystery.

The next day, you explore Sakkara and Giza, where the awe-inspiring pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx captivate your senses. A visit to Upper Egypt reveals the magnificent Abu Simbel temple, a testament to both ancient artistry and modern archaeological efforts.

Embarking on a four-night cruise aboard the Sanctuary Nile Adventurer provides a welcome respite after the hustle and bustle of Cairo and Abu Simbel. Along the way, you disembark to explore the unfinished obelisk, the temple of Philae, and the fascinating crocodile god Sobek.

Valley of the Kings and Beyond

As your journey progresses, you arrive in Luxor, often referred to as the jewel of the Nile. Here, you venture into the sacred burial ground known as the Valley of the Kings. The tombs of pharaohs and nobles, including the famous Tutankhamun, offer a glimpse into the afterlife beliefs of ancient Egyptians.

One of the highlights is the tomb of Seti I, one of the longest and deepest in the valley. Its walls are adorned with vibrant murals and hieroglyphs, including a celestial blue ceiling adorned with thousands of golden stars.

Egypt's bold use of color becomes evident as you visit the temple of Esna, where archaeologists work tirelessly to restore the original vivid hues. From mixing egg whites with ground minerals to the grand carvings and decorations, the ancient Egyptians were pioneers of technicolor.

Karnak Temple: A Monument to Human Achievement

A visit to Karnak Temple in Luxor leaves you in awe. To this day, it remains the largest religious site ever built, dwarfing even the Vatican. The sheer scale and complexity of this ancient marvel defy comprehension, leaving you pondering how it was constructed and how it has endured for nearly 4000 years.

A Glimpse into Egypt's Later History

Ending the day at the temple of Luxor, you witness the layers of history that followed ancient Egypt's golden era. Roman frescoes and the ancient Abu Haggag mosque illustrate the transformations these sacred sites underwent over the centuries, even after Egypt's decline in 30 BCE.

A Grateful Reflection

Your journey through Egypt ultimately leaves you with a sense of gratitude and relief. The tireless labor of loyal servants and artisans who dedicated their lives to constructing and decorating tombs continues to benefit the living. As you stand in the shadows of their work, you realize the enduring power of human achievement and the ever-evolving tapestry of history.

Returning to everyday life, it takes time to process the profound experience. Egypt has expanded your horizons and challenged your comfort zones. It serves as a reminder that life is short, but history is long, and the most impactful travel experiences should leave you with more than just photographs.

Egypt, a land of timeless wonders, offers an unparalleled travel experience. From the banks of the Nile to the magnificent temples and tombs, this journey will leave you with a profound appreciation for history and human achievement. As you return to the modern world, you'll carry with you the echoes of an ancient civilization that has left an indelible mark on the sands of time.

Epictetus's Life Laws you should know Before you Get Old

Epictetus was a Greek Stoic philosopher. Epictetus taught that philosophy is a way of life and not just a theoretical discipline. To Epictetus, all external events are beyond our control; we should accept whatever happens calmly and dispassionately. However, individuals are responsible for their own actions, which they can examine and control through rigorous self-discipline.

Timeline of the Life of Jesus

The video provides a timeline of the life of Jesus based on the four canonical gospels, using a chart created by Clarence Larkin in 1892 with revisions by Reverend Earl in 1894. It explains the importance of the "Graphic Harmony of the Gospels" section in understanding Jesus' life, highlighting the similarities and differences between the synoptic Gospels and the Gospel of John. The timeline covers Jesus' birth, childhood, baptism, ministry in Galilee, events in other regions, and his crucifixion, burial, and resurrection.

Watch the video to find out more!

How Did The Romans Defeat The Greeks?

Let's discuss two powerful ancient civilizations: the Roman Empire and Ancient Greece.

The Roman Empire, which emerged in 31 BC, covered a vast territory, including Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It began with the rule of Emperor Augustus and later adopted Christianity as its state religion. The Western Roman Empire fell in 476 AD, while the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine Empire) continued until 1453.

Ancient Greece, on the other hand, existed from the 12th century BC to around 600 AD. It was a collection of city-states and regions, with Alexander the Great briefly unifying them. Greece influenced Western culture significantly, especially in philosophy, politics, and art.

In a nutshell, these two civilizations, Rome and Greece, played crucial roles in shaping the foundations of Western civilization.

Watch the video below for more information:

These Civil War Photos in Color will Amaze You

Step back in time and experience the American Civil War like never before!

In this mesmerizing video, we delve into history to unveil a collection of rarely-seen photographs from one of the most pivotal moments in American history. Join us as we transport you to the 1860s through the magic of colorization, bringing these black-and-white images to life in stunning detail.

From battlefields to portraits of iconic figures, each image has been carefully restored to provide a fresh perspective on the American Civil War. Enjoy!

6 Ancient Human Species We Once Co-Existed With

In this captivating video, we delve into the fascinating world of ancient human species that once shared the earth with us. Join us on a journey through time as we explore the rich tapestry of our evolutionary history and uncover the stories of six remarkable human species that co existed with our ancestors.

From the enigmatic Neanderthals, to the mysterious Denisovans, and even the tiny island dwelling, Homo Floresiensis, and another three more! Each one of these species left behind intriguing clues that shed light on our past. Through engaging visuals and expert insights, we unravel the secrets of these ancient humans, their unique characteristics, and the impact they had on shaping our present day understanding of humanity.

Prepare to be amazed by the diversity and complexity of our human family tree. So join us as we unravel the mysteries of our ancient cohabitants in this thought-provoking exploration of the past. Enjoy!

Where did the Harappan civilisation go?

Four thousand years ago, the Harappan civilisation thrived in what is now modern-day Pakistan. By 1800 BC their cities were abandoned. Now a team of scientists think they have discovered why and where did they go. Watch the video to find out more!

Turkish Divers Searching For Lake Monster Uncover A 3,000 Year Old Mystery

During their quest to locate a lake monster, Turkish divers have stumbled upon an enigma that dates back to 3,000 years ago.

Explorers have long said that Lake Van, the largest lake in Turkey is home to an elusive treasure in its depths, but no one has yet to find it. So when researchers from Van Yüzüncü Yıl University decided to explore the uncharted waters of the ancient lake, they knew full-well that they might come away empty-handed. But that wasn't their only fear that afternoon: an unseen danger lurking beneath the surface threatened to do much more than just hinder their research.

Marcus Aurelius: The Man Who Solved the Universe

The wise man in Stoicism is not afraid of pain, death, poverty, or any of the vicissitudes of The Human Condition, but only fears letting himself down and being less than a complete human being.

Marcus Aurelius chose a life of virtue even when he had unlimited power and resources, showing impressive self-control and commitment to being good. Marcus Aurelius believed that it is our duty as humans to be the kindest and most virtuous individuals we can be, fulfilling our potential and living up to our fullest capabilities. Watch the video for more!

6 myths about the Middle Ages that everyone believes

Medieval Europe. Where unbathed, sword-wielding knights ate rotten meat, thought the Earth was flat, defended chastity-belt wearing maidens, and tortured their foes with grisly gadgets. Except… this is more fiction than fact. So, where do all the myths about the Middle Ages come from? And what were they actually like? Stephanie Honchell Smith debunks common misconceptions about the time period.

12 Most Incredible Archaeological Artifacts Finds

The speaker in this section of a YouTube video discusses several incredible archaeological artifacts discovered around the world. These artifacts come from various time periods and travel regions, representing different cultures and civilizations.

One such artifact is a bronze sculpture of a head of a king from the Kingdom of Benin, found in Nigeria's Ido Museum of West African art. The piece was voluntarily returned by the University of Aberdeen, Scotland, after a review of its acquisition deemed it unethical. Another artifact is the Costco Deo, an ancient artifact discovered in 1976 by a fisherman in Galicia, Spain.

The Costco Deo is a beautifully decorated bowl made entirely out of a single piece of gold and decorated with six thin bands of concentric circles. Despite its unique style, the artifact does not fit the conventional design of known crowns or helmets, adding to its mystery and intrigue. Overall, the discovery of these artifacts has provided valuable insights into the past and has helped to preserve important artifacts for future generations.

The stories of incredible objects from the past always interest us, and we hope they interest you in this video.

7 Types of People Stoicism Warns Us About

Delve into the illuminating philosophies echoed by Seneca's letters, grasp the powerful warnings penned by Marcus Aurelius, and journey through Stoicism's core cautionary tales. Learn about the 7 types of individuals that Stoicism advises us to be wary of, and why. Whether you're a seasoned Stoic scholar or you're just dipping your toes into its rich teachings, this video sheds light on the characters that could divert us from a path of wisdom and virtue. It's not just about identifying these types, it's about understanding and navigating our relations with them. Ready to unravel age-old Stoic insights into human behavior?

The 5 Most Incredible Archaeological Discoveries of Recent Times

There is no hard and fast guide to what a major archaeological discovery should look like, or how old it needs to be to be considered significant.

Predicting the future is difficult, but based on our research we have done some research on the archaeological discoveries and stories we might see in 2023. Here we have compiled the latest archaeological discoveries of 2023 for you. In this video we will explore archaeological wonders big and small, and we start now. Enjoy!

The Beautiful White 'Black' Africans

Their complexion is white, their eyes are blue, and their hair is blonde. They are, nonetheless, fully African in origin. The majority of these people live in one African country. Of course, we’re referring to the Albino people, and Tanzania has the biggest concentration of these gorgeous, intriguing people.

Albinism is a genetic condition where the skin lacks melanin pigment. This results in very pale skin, eyes and hair. People with albinism, also have varying degrees of visual impairment. As a result, many albinos are legally blind and extremely light-sensitive. It affects people of all ethnic backgrounds; its frequency worldwide is estimated to be approximately one in 17,000. The prevalence of the different forms of albinism varies considerably by population and is highest overall in people of sub-Saharan African descent.

While albinism affects one in every 15 000 people in most African sub-regions, it affects one in every 1400 Tanzanians. A mutation of the albino gene OCA2, which produces the melanin pigment responsible for tanning the skin, is carried (if not exhibited) by one in every 19 Tanzanians. Albinism is more common in East Africa because rural tribes have a more isolated genetic pool, and because the society is less mobile.

Albinos are socially alienated and stigmatized. They are often called derogatory terms like "ghosts" and "white goats’, says Fundikila Wazambi of the Legal and Human Rights Centre in Tanzania. Stigmatisation means that they aren’t able to fully participate in socio-economic activities or access essential social services and that their freedom of movement is limited. They are blamed for natural disasters like famine, drought, or locust invasions by those who believe that albinos are cursed.

That deep, internal struggle felt by many with albinism often goes unnoticed by others. Because they often don't look like the people within their racial group, the question is: where do they fit? People with albinism in Tanzania have a price on their heads – whether dead or alive, adults or children. Albino trafficking isn't reported enough in Tanzania and other East and Southern African countries where their body parts are in high demand.

In East Africa, the average person with albinism dies at the age of 30 from skin cancer, and only 2% of people with albinism live to the age of 40. This needs to change. Albinos are our brothers and sisters and deserve to live stigma-free with full support from society to live full, happy lives. It is my hope that this video will inspire this paradigm shift.

New Evidence Shows Experts Have Dinosaurs' Extinction All Wrong

Recent evidence indicates that the prevailing theories regarding the extinction of dinosaurs may be erroneous, as experts have been found to have misinterpreted the available data.

Perhaps no animal, living or dead, has captivated the world in the way that dinosaurs have. But what if everything we thought we knew about these prehistoric creatures turned out to be wrong? When one paleontologist began excavating a dig site in the mountains of North Dakota, he soon discovered a lost piece of dinosaur history that may change everything we thought we knew about the terrible lizards that once ruled the world.

The First Gun Ever

What did the first firearm look like? It’s quite difficult to say for certain what the first true gun actually was— but we know where and (roughly) when it was invented. In this video, we travel to medieval China to give us an idea of what the earliest firearms were like and how they were used. From flamethrowing spears to guns that spat poison flames, we look at a number of early firearms and how they (very slowly) changed the face of war. Watch the video below for more!

The History of Central America

Central America - gorgeous, exciting and troubled. This is one of the most interesting places on Earth and yet most of us barely have a vague understanding of what this region is all about. This is not a single country, of course, but the history of the nations that live here is strongly intertwined. Today we'll have a look at the history of Central America. Enjoy!