Unraveling the Mysteries of the People of Cahokia: North America's Forgotten Past

Have you ever heard about the lost civilization that thrived in North America a thousand years ago? Surprisingly, not many people are aware of the fascinating history of the People of Cahokia. This ancient civilization, located near present-day St. Louis, Missouri, was once the largest and most influential city in North America. Yet, over time, their remarkable achievements have faded into obscurity.

Journeying Back in Time

Let's embark on a journey to uncover the hidden remnants of this forgotten past. With every step, we will discover the extraordinary civilization that once flourished on the shores of the Mississippi River.

Historians believe that the People of Cahokia, also known as the Mississippians, thrived between the years 1000 and 1350 CE. During this time, Cahokia was a bustling metropolis with a population that rivaled the largest cities in Europe. It stretched over six square miles and comprised more than 120 mounds, some reaching heights of up to 100 feet.

People of the Morning Star: People of Cahokia (North America's Forgotten Past Book 21)

by W. Michael Gear (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2484 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled

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The Enigmatic Mounds

The vast array of mounds found at Cahokia mystify archaeologists. These structures served various purposes, from burial sites to platforms for important ceremonial activities. The most famous mound at Cahokia is the Monk's Mound, which stands as the largest prehistoric earthwork in the Americas. Can you imagine the labor and engineering prowess required to construct such a colossal monument?

But what secrets are hidden beneath these mounds? That's where the true allure lies. Excavations have revealed the remains of wealthy houses, influential temples, and evidence of social hierarchies. The remnants of intricate wooden palisades and protective ditches indicate a society that was not only prosperous but also prepared for any potential threats that might arise.

An Advanced Civilization

The People of Cahokia were far from primitive. Evidence suggests that they had a complex society that engaged in advanced practices such as agriculture, trade, and long-distance communication. Their agricultural techniques allowed them to cultivate maize, beans, and squash, sustaining a large population.

Moreover, archaeologists have discovered artifacts from as far as the Great Lakes and the Gulf of Mexico within Cahokia's ancient grounds. This suggests a sophisticated trade network that spanned across vast distances, enabling the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural influences.

Social Structure and Beliefs

Unraveling the social structure of the People of Cahokia is a puzzle that historians are still piecing together. However, evidence indicates the existence of social classes and a hierarchical system. Elaborate burial sites, such as the Mound 72, contain evidence of human sacrifices and acts of political and spiritual significance.

Religion played an essential role in the lives of the Mississippians. They worshiped a variety of deities and believed in the interconnectedness of the spiritual and natural worlds. Their religious ceremonies, often held at the Great Plaza, attracted individuals from far and wide, fostering communal cohesion and cultural exchange.

The Mysterious Decline

Despite their remarkable achievements, the People of Cahokia met a mysterious fate. By the late 14th century, the city began to decline, slowly fading away into history. The reasons behind this downfall remain a subject of debate among experts. Some propose theories of environmental degradation, natural disasters, or even internal conflicts and social unrest.

Unveiling the Past

Today, the remains of Cahokia stand as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, allowing visitors to walk amongst the ancient mounds and witness the echoes of the past. Despite the limited knowledge about this enigmatic civilization, enthusiasts and researchers continue to delve deeper, striving to uncover the truth behind the People of Cahokia and their forgotten legacy.

So, the next time you stumble upon an article or mention about the People of Cahokia, make sure to pause and acknowledge the incredible accomplishments of this forgotten civilization. Reflect on their mysterious decline and contemplate the impact they had on the history and culture of North America.

People of the Morning Star: People of Cahokia (North America's Forgotten Past Book 21)

by W. Michael Gear (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2484 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Award-winning archaeologists and New York Times and USA Today bestselling authors W. Michael Gear and Kathleen O'Neal Gear begin the stunning saga of the North American equivalent of ancient Rome in People of the Morning Star.
The city of Cahokia, at its height, covered more than six square miles around what is now St. Louis and included structures more than ten stories high. Cahokian warriors and traders roamed from the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico. What force on earth would motivate hundreds of thousands of people to pick up, move hundreds of miles, and once plopped down amidst a polyglot of strangers, build an incredible city?
A religious miracle: the Cahokians believed that the divine hero Morning Star had been resurrected in the flesh. But not all is fine and stable in glorious Cahokia. To the astonishment of the ruling clan, an attempt is made on the living god's life. Now it is up to Morning Star's aunt, Matron Blue Heron, to keep it quiet until she can uncover the plot and bring the culprits to justice. If she fails, Cahokia will be torn asunder in warfare, rage, and blood as civil war consumes them all.

At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.