Archaeogeodesy, a Key to Prehistory, a work by James Q. Jacobs, investigates the potent intersection of archaeology, mathematics, astronomy, and geodetic knowledge to decode the spatial properties, placements, arrangements, and relationship of prehistoric sites and monuments. In essence, this field of study encompasses not just ancient place determination and navigation (both on land and at sea), but also the representation and measurement of the earth, geodynamic phenomena, and the applied side of astronomy.
As a nascent area of inquiry, archaeogeodesy presents novel perspectives in assessing ancients' understanding of geography, place, and the correlation between the earth and cosmos whose remnants are evident in archaeological relics. Jacobs effectively leverages this interdisciplinary approach to challenge the conventional belief of disjointed ancient monuments. He emphasizes the significant yet understudied interrelationships amongst noted ancient structures such as the many forms of pyramids found across Egypt including the stepped, bent, or true ones.
Furthermore, Jacobs prompts his readers into questioning the connections of pyramids and other similar mounds scattered all over the world. Attempting to dismantle assumptions, he highlights the often overlooked similarities between neighboring earthworks in North America and Neolithic mounds. The author successfully highlights the potential of archaeogeodesy in revealing the extensive cultural, spatial, and temporal connections amongst diverse historical structures, suggesting a more interconnected prehistoric world than widely acknowledged.
Archaeogeodesy, a Key to Prehistory not only delves into the technical facets of archaeogeodesy but also serves as an engaging entry point for readers interested in historical geography and ancient place determination. Jacobs combines the empirical aspects of science with the analytical prowess of humanities to offer fresh insights about prehistoric structures, their placements, and their interconnectedness lending a fresh voice to archaeological studies.
