If you are someone who desires to know in-depth about ancient civilizations, then you surely need to take a chance and dive into the captivating pages of this nonfiction book, “Colonies on the Backside” by Jay Stuart Wakefield.
Within the pages of this book, readers embark on a journey into uncharted territories of ancient maritime exploration. The book shines a light on a forgotten chapter of human history, where civilizations from across the globe ventured into the unknown, establishing connections between the Old and New Worlds long before Columbus. Wakefield’s work challenges conventional historical narratives, compelling us to reconsider the complexities of ancient globalization.
Ancient Mariners: Who Were They?
Wakefield introduces a plethora of ancient civilizations that may have sailed to the Americas. These include the Egyptians, Celts, Phoenicians, Hebrews, Minoans, and even Pacific Islanders. The book meticulously details archaeological artifacts—from decorated bronze axes to petroglyphs—as evidence of these civilizations’ presence in the Americas. These artifacts provide compelling clues, suggesting that the Americas were not as isolated as traditionally believed.
One striking example is the discussion of the Phoenicians, master mariners of the Mediterranean, who are thought to have ventured across the Atlantic in search of precious metals. Wakefield’s investigation into ancient copper trade routes highlights the possibility of a transoceanic exchange, with the Great Lakes region in North America serving as a significant source of copper for Bronze Age civilizations.
The Routes and Challenges of Exploration
Wakefield’s narrative delves into the treacherous journeys faced by ancient explorers. He describes the “Northern and Southern Crossing routes,” which navigators used to traverse the vast Atlantic. These routes were fraught with challenges, from unpredictable weather patterns to uncharted waters. Yet, the ingenuity of ancient mariners—evident in their advanced knowledge of celestial navigation and ocean currents—enabled them to undertake such daring voyages.
A significant portion of the book examines the Azores and Canary Islands as critical stopover points. These islands, rich with archaeological remains such as pyramidal structures and petroglyphs, served as vital waystations for ancient seafarers. Wakefield’s analysis suggests that these islands were not merely accidental discoveries but integral parts of well-planned maritime routes.
Implications for Global History
The implications of Wakefield’s research are profound. If ancient civilizations established colonies in the Americas, it reframes our understanding of cultural exchange, trade, and technological diffusion. For example, Wakefield’s discussion of similar architectural styles and agricultural practices in disparate parts of the world hints at a level of interconnectedness previously unacknowledged.
Moreover, the book critiques mainstream academic archaeology for its reluctance to embrace diffusionist theories. Wakefield argues that established narratives often dismiss evidence that contradicts the dominant view of isolated development in the Americas. By presenting a wealth of archaeological and textual evidence, he challenges readers to adopt a more open-minded perspective on ancient history.
A Call to Rediscover the Past
“Colonies on the Backside” is more than a historical analysis; it is a call to action for researchers, historians, and enthusiasts to dig deeper into the mysteries of our past. Wakefield’s meticulous documentation of artifacts, coupled with his bold hypotheses, invites readers to question and explore.
All in all, if you are someone who is interested in learning whether there were indeed sailors way back when who crossed oceans long before Christopher Columbus, this book comes with a treasure trove of insights. It simply reminds one that sometimes there is knowledge to be gleaned beyond the horizon- waiting to be unearthed.