People are cross with this fact I posted about the history of the Amazon.
(Apparently, I need to apologise.)
I don't believe scientists should apologise for communicating facts, so here is more info on it...
(Apparently, I need to apologise.)
I don't believe scientists should apologise for communicating facts, so here is more info on it...
Prior to 1492, the Amazon was not a pristine wilderness, but in fact supported complex agricultural societies and farming on a very large scale.
It was home to millions of people, who shaped the landscape even today.
We know this from several pieces of evidence:
It was home to millions of people, who shaped the landscape even today.
We know this from several pieces of evidence:
Like many rainforest areas, the soils in large parts of the Amazon are really poor.
Except in pockets, with super fertile black soil called 'Terra preta'.
This soil was created by humans intentionally, by making charcoal to enrich it to grow crops.
Except in pockets, with super fertile black soil called 'Terra preta'.
This soil was created by humans intentionally, by making charcoal to enrich it to grow crops.
While it may appear untamed and wild to non-geeks, botanists studying the trees of the Amazon have found that edible fruit trees are disproportionally represented.
In some areas, near sites of prior human habitation, these species can be found in up to x5 the expected level.
In some areas, near sites of prior human habitation, these species can be found in up to x5 the expected level.
Archaeological evidence, including hundreds of ancient earthworks that are visible from planes and satellite tech adds to a picture that really challenges this Western-centric 'Garden of Eden' image.
It shouldn't be a huge surprise really, as early accounts from European visitors match this picture.
Sadly, shortly after this contact there was a massive depopulation of the region as local people succumbed to Old World diseases for which they had no resistance.
Sadly, shortly after this contact there was a massive depopulation of the region as local people succumbed to Old World diseases for which they had no resistance.
This is not a controversial view really in any way, but is pretty standard science.
Of course, none of this means we should value the amazing beauty, diversity & ecological function of Amazon any less.
In fact, the ability of nature to regenerate should give us hope.
Of course, none of this means we should value the amazing beauty, diversity & ecological function of Amazon any less.
In fact, the ability of nature to regenerate should give us hope.
