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Best of 2024 … so far: Solar storms, ice cores and nuns’ teeth: the new science of history
Aug 30, 2024
Jacob Mikanowski, a contributor delving into advancements in the science of history, discusses groundbreaking techniques reshaping our understanding of the past. He highlights paleoproteomics and ancient genomics in uncovering human migrations and historical diseases. The conversation also reveals how environmental crises influenced societal beliefs during the Byzantine Empire. Additionally, Mikanowski sheds light on the overlooked contributions of women, particularly nuns, in crafting illuminated manuscripts, enriching our narrative of history with their personal stories.
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Quick takeaways
- Advancements in scientific methods like isotopic analysis and DNA extraction are revolutionizing historical research by revealing details about ancient migrations and species origins.
- The combination of modern techniques and interdisciplinary approaches enables historians to reinterpret narratives, emphasizing personal stories and experiences of individuals overlooked in traditional accounts.
Deep dives
The Revolution in Historical Methods
Recent advancements in scientific techniques are dramatically transforming the field of history, allowing historians to gain insights into the past that were previously unimaginable. For instance, the analysis of stable isotopes in bones and teeth has enabled researchers to track ancient migrations and trade routes, such as the movement of a girl from Germany to Denmark during the Bronze Age. Additionally, the ability to extract ancient DNA has shed light on the origins of various species and their role in human history. These new methodologies are reshaping the way historians think about the past, effectively allowing for a reinterpretation of historical narratives through material evidence rather than solely through written records.
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