Global map shows 81-year knowledge loss of elongated skull distribution records. A 1938 book documented a map of elongated skull distribution worldwide Comparison with a 2019 peer-reviewed paper shows significant loss of documented knowledge over 81 years Eastern seaboard of the United States, middle of the United States, Pacific Islands, and chunks of Asia disappeared from records
A 1938 book mapped elongated skull distribution worldwide, but comparison with a 2019 peer-reviewed paper reveals significant knowledge loss over 81 years — entire regions like the US eastern seaboard, Pacific Islands, and chunks of Asia vanished from records. The practice was worldwide and universal, yet NAGPRA and selection bias now limit specimen access. Our understanding of the past keeps shrinking. 📈🔭🦂
Key Facts
- A 1938 book documented a map of elongated skull distribution worldwide
- Comparison with a 2019 peer-reviewed paper shows significant loss of documented knowledge over 81 years
- Eastern seaboard of the United States, middle of the United States, Pacific Islands, and chunks of Asia disappeared from records
- Museums claim cultural sensitivity as the reason for not displaying skulls, but the practice is worldwide and universal
- The 'Chinook Sign of Freedom' book published in 1960 is now out of print and not stored in archives
- NAGPRA (Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act) has prevented access to many specimens
- Selection bias plays a significant role in what evidence survives in the archaeological record
Source: Second Sphinx Panel w Randall Carlson Sedona Day 1 by DeDunking