Echoes of Disease and Civilization

This chapter explores the historical influence of diseases on indigenous civilizations in the Americas, with a focus on smallpox and its devastating effects on populations like the Mayans and Incas. It also examines modern archaeological methods, such as Lidar, that reveal the advanced societies hidden within the Amazon rainforest, challenging the idea of an untouched wilderness. The discussion further reflects on the interplay between environmental resources and technological advancement in shaping human societies throughout history.