Clovis First rejected evidence of pre-Clovis settlement Americas. Clovis First hypothesis stated humans first arrived in Americas around 12,000-14,000 years ago via land bridge Evidence older than 12,000-14,000 years was categorically rejected by archaeology Monteverde site in Chile proved the Clovis First hypothesis wrong

Monteverde in Chile proved humans arrived in the Americas long before the Clovis First theory allowed. Tom Dillehay fought to prove it—and won.

Key facts claimed:

- Clovis First hypothesis stated humans first arrived in Americas around 12,000-14,000 years ago via land bridge

- Evidence older than 12,000-14,000 years was categorically rejected by archaeology

- Monteverde site in Chile proved the Clovis First hypothesis wrong

- Scientist Tom Dillehay fought tooth and nail and was eventually proven right

- Archaeologists who presented contrary evidence were threatened and had their work discredited

Key Facts

  • Clovis First hypothesis stated humans first arrived in Americas around 12,000-14,000 years ago via land bridge
  • Evidence older than 12,000-14,000 years was categorically rejected by archaeology
  • Monteverde site in Chile proved the Clovis First hypothesis wrong
  • Scientist Tom Dahn (Dillehay) fought tooth and nail and was eventually proven right
  • Archaeologists who presented contrary evidence were threatened and had their work discredited

Related site: Monteverde — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.