Paleolithic Was Not Dumb

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Lost Worlds: Prehistoric Astronomers Taken from: http://www.enhancetv.com.au/shop/product.php?printable=Y&productid=146009

2009 is International Year of Astronomy. The Paleolithic cave printings at Lascaux, France, have long been seen as astonishing examples of the artistic capacity of prehistoric cultures. But are they more then that? It is commonly known that 35,000 years ago, humans were brutish and primitive and their main activities were copulation, hunting and gathering. But what if this prehistoric human was clever enough to develop in depth scientific knowledge? As unlikely as it may seem, new data prove that these humans actually invented astronomy. For the last 20 years, Chantal Jegues-Wolkiewiez, an independent astronomer and ethnologist, has led a rigorous investigation to prove this theory. According to her studies, hunter gatherers spent long nights observing the sky, calculating, and recording their discoveries either on the walls of caves or on animal bones. Thanks to their analyses they could measure time and adapt to weather change. In Prehistoric Astronomers, Jegues-Wolkiewiez shares her stunning conclusions that Prehistoric men chose their caves according to the orientation of the sun, created measuring tools such as a lunar calendar, and their wall paintings were the first maps of the sky and stars. Today, these fascinating discoveries are gradually gaining respect in the international science community. (From France, in English and French, English subtitles) (Documentary) G CC WS   Details Duration (mins) 60 Date of broadcast 14/6/2009 Channel SBS ONE Price: AUD38.45 including GST