Radiolab The Fellowship of the Tree Rings
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Jul 14, 2023 In a Tucson bar, three scientists dive into the mysteries of tree rings and their links to hurricanes. They uncover a 70-year gap in historical hurricane activity that reshapes our understanding of maritime history. Exploring the Maunder Minimum, they connect it to the Golden Age of Piracy and the rise of capitalism fueled by climate fluctuations. The discussion emphasizes the urgency of today's climate change, urging listeners to recognize the intricate relationship between past weather events and our current environmental challenges.
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The Puzzle of Narrow Tree Rings
- In Tucson, Arizona, three dendrochronologists met at Tiger's Taproom.
- They discussed Grant Harley's research on unusually narrow tree rings found in Big Pine Key, Florida.
Hurricanes and Tree Rings
- Grant hypothesized that hurricanes caused the narrow tree rings by stressing the trees.
- Comparing tree ring data with hurricane records from NOAA confirmed this theory.
Shipwrecks and Hurricanes
- Marta suggested comparing the tree ring data to shipwreck records, as many shipwrecks are caused by hurricanes.
- This comparison revealed a strong correlation, further validating the hurricane theory.