How DNA, Ancient Alphabets, and Religion Explain the Origins of America's Largest Mounds

The vast landscapes of North America are dotted with enigmatic earthworks, colossal mounds that have long puzzled archaeologists and historians alike. These towering structures, some stretching hundreds of feet in length and height, stand as silent witnesses to a rich and complex past. Among these enigmatic mounds, none are more awe-inspiring than the largest: Cahokia, located in present-day Illinois.

Old World Roots of the Cherokee: How DNA, Ancient Alphabets and Religion Explain the Origins of America's Largest Indian Nation

by Donald N. Yates

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Cahokia, a sprawling metropolis that flourished between 1050 and 1350 CE, was once home to an estimated 20,000 to 40,000 people. Its central feature, Monks Mound, is the largest prehistoric earthen structure in the Americas, rising 100 feet in height and covering an area of 14 acres. This monumental mound, along with numerous other earthworks and structures, has attracted the attention of researchers from around the world, eager to unravel the secrets of this ancient civilization.

In recent years, groundbreaking discoveries in DNA analysis, ancient alphabet research, and religious studies have shed new light on the origins of Cahokia and other large mounds in North America. These findings challenge traditional assumptions and provide compelling evidence for the existence of a sophisticated and interconnected ancient civilization, spanning vast distances and leaving an enduring legacy on the continent.

DNA Evidence: A Genetic Link to the Past

DNA analysis of Native American populations has revealed a deep genetic connection between the builders of Cahokia and other mound-building cultures in the eastern United States. Studies have shown that these ancient peoples shared a common ancestry with populations in Central and South America, suggesting a migration from these regions thousands of years ago.

Further research has identified specific genetic markers that are prevalent among Native American populations associated with mound-building traditions. These genetic markers provide evidence for a shared cultural heritage and a possible genetic predisposition for the construction of monumental earthworks.

Ancient Alphabets: Deciphering the Written Past

Alongside DNA evidence, the discovery of ancient alphabets has played a crucial role in understanding the origins of America's largest mounds. Researchers have identified similarities between symbols found on pottery, stone tablets, and other artifacts from Cahokia and ancient writing systems from the Middle East and Europe.

One particularly intriguing connection is to the Proto-Sinaitic script, an early writing system that emerged in the Sinai Peninsula around 1800 BCE. This script is believed to be the precursor to many later alphabetic systems, including the Phoenician, Greek, and Latin alphabets.

Striking similarities have been found between Proto-Sinaitic symbols and symbols found on Cahokia artifacts. This suggests that the ancient people of Cahokia may have had contact with or knowledge of writing systems from distant lands, potentially facilitating the exchange of ideas and technologies.

Religion and Sacred Geometry: Unveiling the Spiritual Significance

Beyond DNA and ancient alphabets, religious beliefs and practices played a profound role in the construction of Cahokia and other large mounds. Archaeological evidence indicates that these structures were often used for religious ceremonies, rituals, and astronomical observations.

The geometric patterns and alignments of the mounds suggest a sophisticated understanding of sacred geometry. The Great Serpent Mound in Ohio, for example, is an effigy mound shaped like a serpent extending over 1,300 feet in length. Its intricate design and alignment with the solstices indicate that it was likely used for religious or ceremonial purposes.

Mound City Group in Ohio and Serpent Mound in Georgia are other examples of large mounds that exhibit sacred geometry and possible astronomical alignments. These structures demonstrate the importance of religion and spirituality in the lives of the ancient mound builders.

The Mississippian Culture: A Legacy of Mound Building

The Mississippian culture, which flourished between 800 and 1500 CE, is widely regarded as the primary civilization responsible for the construction of large mounds in North America. This culture encompassed a vast region stretching from the Gulf Coast to the Great Lakes and included major centers such as Cahokia, Mound City Group, and Spiro Mounds.

The Mississippian people were skilled architects and engineers who developed complex political and social systems. Their mounds served as administrative centers, religious temples, burial grounds, and defensive fortifications. The scale and sophistication of these structures reflect the power and organization of the Mississippian civilization.

Antecedents and Influences: Exploring Earlier Mound-Building Cultures

While the Mississippian culture is closely associated with large-scale mound building, evidence suggests that earlier cultures also engaged in this practice. The Adena culture (1000-200 BCE) and the Hopewell culture (200 BCE-500 CE) constructed smaller mounds and earthworks, laying the foundation for the monumental structures built by the Mississippians.

The Fort Ancient culture (1000-1750 CE) in the Ohio Valley also left behind a legacy of large mounds. Oneota culture (1000-1700 CE) sites in the Upper Midwest feature impressive earthworks, including the Aztalan site in Wisconsin.

: A Multifaceted Legacy

The origins of America's largest mounds are a complex and multifaceted story, involving a convergence of DNA, ancient alphabets, religion, and cultural influences. DNA evidence suggests a genetic connection between mound builders and ancient populations in Central and South America.

The discovery of ancient alphabet symbols on Cahokia artifacts raises intriguing possibilities of long-distance connections and knowledge exchange. Religious beliefs and practices played a central role in the construction and use of mounds, evidenced by their sacred geometry and alignment with celestial events.

The Mississippian culture emerged as the dominant mound-building civilization, leaving behind a legacy of impressive structures that showcased their architectural prowess and societal organization. Earlier cultures, such as the Adena, Hopewell, Fort Ancient, and Oneota, also contributed to the tradition of mound building in North America.

Through continued research and collaboration, we continue to unravel the mysteries surrounding the origins and significance of America's largest mounds. These enigmatic structures stand as a testament to the creativity, ingenuity, and spiritual beliefs of ancient civilizations, leaving a lasting imprint on the landscape and the collective memory of the continent.

Old World Roots of the Cherokee: How DNA, Ancient Alphabets and Religion Explain the Origins of America's Largest Indian Nation

by Donald N. Yates

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9440 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	429 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE