The strides in science, technology, and the evolution of AI tools have indeed revolutionised our ability to unravel longstanding mysteries that were once enigmatic puzzles. The year 2023 saw remarkable breakthroughs as scientists successfully decoded several historical enigmas, shedding light on mysteries that have intrigued and perplexed us for ages.
Among the top historical mysteries solved, some discoveries spanned various fields. For instance, advances in DNA analysis enabled the identification of individuals from ancient civilisations, unlocking secrets about their origins and connections. Archaeological advancements provided insights into lost civilisations and more.
List of 7 Historical Mysteries Solved In 2023
1. Decoding the Herculaneum scrolls with AI
Researchers at the University of Nebraska achieved a groundbreaking feat by decoding the Herculaneum Scrolls, a collection of 1100 scrolls that had been charred in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Employing artificial intelligence (AI) and computerised tomography, a technique that peers inside 3D objects, proved instrumental in predicting and extracting the meaning embedded in the text. This marked a significant step forward in the endeavour to precisely decipher the script and unveil the language encapsulated in these ancient scrolls.
Luke Farritor, a computer science student, played a pivotal role in this accomplishment. Utilising AI and tomography, he successfully uncovered the first word, 'πορϕυρας' (porphyras) in ancient Greek, which translates to 'purple'. This breakthrough not only showcases the power of technology in unravelling historical mysteries but also lays the foundation for further exploration and understanding of the contents of the Herculaneum Scrolls.
2. Roman Concrete's Secrets
Roman concrete, also known as opus caementicium, stands as a testament to the remarkable engineering prowess of ancient Rome. This durable and robust building material was utilised for constructing a wide array of structures, including docks, sewers, and buildings in earthquake-prone areas.
In a study released in January 2023, scientists unveiled what they believe to be the secret component that endowed Roman concrete with its exceptional resilience. The key ingredients in Roman concrete were a blend of lime, volcanic ash, and seawater. This unique combination conferred extraordinary strength and durability to the material, enabling the Romans to erect intricate structures that have withstood the test of time.
3. Ötzi Mummy Mystery
Otzi, famously known as the Iceman, is a mummy approximately 5300 years old discovered in the Otztal Alps. Previous research based on DNA analysis has challenged the traditional depictions of his appearance. Unlike popular images that may have portrayed him with lighter features, scientific investigations have revealed that Otzi had dark skin and eyes, and was bald.
Through rigorous scientific examinations, various aspects of Otzi's life have been unveiled. Insights into his food, health, and lifestyle have been gleaned from studies, offering a glimpse into the conditions and challenges faced by individuals in that ancient era. The examinations have also brought to light evidence of intestinal parasites, rib fractures, and dental issues, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of Otzi's life and the health challenges he may have encountered.
4. Ivory Man Turns Out To Be Ivory Woman
In 2008, unearthing ancient skeletal remains within a Spanish tomb unravelled a narrative steeped in mystery and opulence, showcasing ivory tusks, ostrich eggshells, and a crystal dagger. The initial assumption centred on a high-status male figure, yet pivotal research emerged in July through tooth enamel analysis, unmasking the remains as belonging to a female.
Traditional methods, such as examining the pelvis, can occasionally be prone to errors due to the fragility of bones. In this study, researchers employed a different approach, focusing on amelogenin found in tooth enamel. This specific analysis of the tooth enamel unveiled the true biological sex of the individual, offering a more accurate understanding of the gender of the person buried in the tomb.
5. Beethoven's Last Wish
In 1802, as Beethoven's health deteriorated, he implored his physician confidant Johann Adam Schmidt to unveil and publicise the enigmatic ailment plaguing him. Ironically, Schmidt had passed away 18 years before Beethoven's request. Post Beethoven's demise in 1827, a post-mortem examination laid bare the harsh reality of severe liver scarring, identified as cirrhosis.
However, recent research, disseminated on March 22, 2023, in the journal Current Biology, has meticulously unravelled the genetic and viral underpinnings of his malady, ultimately fulfilling the composer's long-standing wish. Analysis of five locks of hair extracted from Ludwig van Beethoven's head now suggests that his demise likely resulted from liver disease, lactose intolerance, and potential Hepatitis B and not the previously presumed lead poisoning.
6. Secrets of Machu Picchu
Concealed within the depths of the Peruvian jungle, concealed beneath a dense canopy of foliage, archaeologists have unearthed a collection of long-forgotten structures nestled amid the extensive ruins of Machu Picchu. The revelation includes approximately a dozen modest edifices situated within a mere 5-mile radius from the primary remnants of the Inca city, dating back to the 15th century. Positioned on the periphery of the ceremonial site known as Chachabamba, these structures came to light through a study featured in the January edition of the Journal of Archaeological Science.
Employing advanced remote-sensing technology, specifically Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR), scientists executed a meticulous exploration. LIDAR utilises laser pulses to bounce off surfaces, discerning features and intricately mapping their contours. This groundbreaking approach has enabled a profound comprehension of the hidden historical landscape surrounding Machu Picchu.
7. 20,000-year-old Pendant's Genetic Revelations
A few years back, an archaeological discovery in southern Siberia unveiled a piece of jewellery crafted from an elk tooth, dating back 20,000 years. In a recent breakthrough, researchers have successfully employed a newly devised method capable of extracting DNA from porous artefacts, shedding light on the pendant's intriguing history. The revelations indicate that the last wearer of this ancient adornment was a woman or girl originating from a region situated approximately 1,200 miles away.
PC: Nature.com
The innovative technique, elucidated in a recent publication in the journal Nature, marks a significant leap forward in the genetic analysis of ancient items. This method not only holds the promise of unravelling ancient DNA from various aged artefacts but also harbours the potential to identify the individuals who once touched or adorned these historical objects.
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