Episode 1: The Wind Cries Mary

In our first archaeology podcast, we discuss Ph.D. candidate, and adjunct professor, Alex Velez’s fascinating work on soundscapes on the Great Plains.

During our discussion, we dive into the sound of winds across the Plains, isolated farmers, and a 19th century idea that this combination might drive people to madness. We also discuss how Velez’s work with Neanderthals in Spain got him thinking about how sounds in particular places might affect people in peculiar ways.

What is Show Me Archaeology?

Henry Glassie, Professor of Folklore and ethnomusicology at Indiana University, wrote, “the old life was simple, we are told. Absurd. Life was anything but simple when people in small groups, interrupted by storms and epidemics and marching armies, managed to raise their own food, make their own clothing, and build their own shelter, while creating their own music, literature, art, science and philosophy” (Glassie 2000:48).

This podcast series, Show Me Archaeology, will explore some of the complexities in the lives of our ancestors around the world, within our own Country, and in the State of Missouri, through research conducted by archaeologists. We, at times, will face questions about our bodies, the ways the landscape and other non-human actors engage with us, and how actions and decisions made in the past influence our present and future. If nothing else, come learn how complicated the past has been, from day one!

We invite you to join us as we dig into exploring our world through the people, places, and ideas that have shaped our society.

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