"Lost" Amazon Civilization

"Satellite images of the upper Amazon Basin taken since 1999 have revealed more than 200 geometric earthworks spanning a distance greater than 155 miles" (J. Roach, 2010, para. 1). The respective geometric shapes include circles, squares, and others that have remained hidden by the Amazon's forestry. While researchers predict to discover numerous structures, detected sites are already dating back to the 3^rd century. Apparently, evidence suggests that the associated sites include complex tools and advanced technology that undoubtedly contrasts previous notions that settlers were, in fact, simplified.

The various shapes are estimated to succeed 30+ feet in length, and 3 feet in underground depth. Within the trenches were accommodation sites that included domestic ceramics, stone grinding fragments, charcoal, etc. Unfortunately, the individuals who utilized such tools remain a mystery. Researchers suspect that the sophisticated settlers eventually encountered European emigrants diseased with illnesses; similar to North American Natives. What is known, though, is that each settlement, or structure within, provided different purposes for residents.

Other astounding discoveries attempt to interpret the population mass and locations settled. For example, the Amazon's fertile floodplains are ideal for agriculture and farming. However, other territories, such as the vast uplands, were exempt of necessary resources and therefore nearly void of settlers. The detected earthworks reveal otherwise. Apparently, the culture adopted an extensive array of land that provided for various lifestyles, etc. Based off social accommodations and the labor required to build the respective complex, estimates suggest a population including roughly 60+ residents in the uplands alone. Of course, the estimate is debatable and requires further scientific study.

I, personally, am fascinated by such exploration. Though my lifestyle consists of a secure structure, a career in anthropology remains a dream. Of course, I hope that the revelation of such structures did not require demolishing natural resources in the rain forests, though it is unlikely. I can almost depict a future landscape revealing vast cities and technology, a day when society is not dependent upon natural resources. Hopefully, we will have more details regarding the expedition's studies shortly.

J., Roach (2010). National Geographic News: "Lost" amazon complex found; shapes seen by satellite. Retrieved Jan 07, 2010 from http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/01/100104-amazon-lost-civilization-circles.html