Interesting if correct - from the Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, U.K.
A Precolumbian Presence of Venetian Glass Trade Beads in Arctic Alaska
Abstract
Excavation at three Late Prehistoric Eskimo sites in arctic Alaska has revealed the presence of Venetian glass trade beads in radiocarbon-dated contexts that predate Columbus's discovery of the Western Hemisphere. The bead variety, commonly known as “Early Blue” and “Ichtucknee Plain,” has been confirmed by expert examination and comparative Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA). The beads are present in sites throughout the Caribbean, the eastern coast of Central and North America, and the eastern Great Lakes region, where they are commonly found in sites dating between approximately AD 1550 and 1750, although a diminishing presence continues into the early 1800s. Beads of this variety have not previously been reported from Alaska. Ascribed to Venetian production by their precolumbian age, the beads challenge the currently accepted chronology for the development of their production methodology, availability, and presence in the Americas. In the absence of trans-Atlantic communication, the most likely route these beads traveled from Europe to northwestern Alaska is across Eurasia and over the Bering Strait. This is the first documented instance of the presence of indubitable European materials in prehistoric sites in the Western Hemisphere as the result of overland transport across the Eurasian continent.
Now this is going to stir up some history theories. From Venice through the Bering Strait? Glass beads would be an excellent trade-good - durable, compact and not locally produced.
I love when stuff like this happens. Turned 70 a few months ago which means that Plate Tectonics was a brand new thing when I was in grade school. Part of the reason why I majored in Physical Oceanography and Marine Biology. Dropped out but that is another story.
Revolutions in thinking keep our minds engaged. More, faster please...
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