Stuff You Should Know What Were the BONE WARS?
Aug 1, 2019
Dive into the wild world of 19th-century paleontology where a fierce rivalry turned fossil hunting into a dramatic spectacle. Discover how paleontologists Marsh and Cope's heated competition led to mudslinging, underhanded tactics, and even public disputes. The discussion reveals the quirky dynamics of their friendship turned feud and the cultural impact of their discoveries. From double agents to dynamited fossils, the Bone Wars highlighted the chaotic beginnings of American science—all served with a side of humor and nostalgia for childhood dinosaur dreams.
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Origins of Dinosaur Interest in America
- America's interest in dinosaurs can be traced to the winter of 1877.
- A rivalry between paleontologists Othniel Charles Marsh and Edward Drinker Cope sparked this interest.
Childhood Dinosaur Interest
- Josh Clark wasn't particularly interested in dinosaurs as a child.
- Chuck Bryant shared a similar lack of dinosaur enthusiasm.
Early Paleontology
- The first documented paleontological expedition in North America was by Lewis and Clark.
- The word "paleontology" was coined in 1822.