Dating evidence and academic challenges. Shang dynasty characters found in America are 340 years earlier than oracle bone inscriptions from China's last capital Petroglyphs dated to early Shang dynasty (second, third, fourth, and sixth kings) Mainstream archaeologists date petroglyphs through organic material and stylistic comparison
Mainstream archaeologists date American petroglyphs through organic material analysis, stylistic comparison, and tribal oral history. Different weathering and carving depth indicate multiple time periods and creators. This remains controversial in academic archaeology.
Key Facts
- Shang dynasty characters found in America are 340 years earlier than oracle bone inscriptions from China's last capital
- Petroglyphs dated to early Shang dynasty (second, third, fourth, and sixth kings)
- Mainstream archaeologists date petroglyphs through organic material and stylistic comparison
- Different weathering and carving depth indicate different time periods and creators
- Tribal oral history provides additional dating evidence
Source: Ancient Symbols: Bridging China and the Americas Through Rock Art | A conversation with Vi Duo by Institute for Natural Philosophy