Ep 9. Dogons and the Sirius Connection

Ancient Civilizations season 2 episode 9 titled "Dogons and the Sirius Connection" explores the fascinating history and traditions of the Dogon people of Mali, West Africa, and their connection to the star system Sirius. The episode dives deep into the mysterious beliefs and practices of the Dogon, as well as the scientific evidence that suggests they may have possessed advanced astronomical knowledge.

The episode starts with an introduction to the Dogon people, who have lived in the cliffs of Mali for centuries. The Dogon are known for their connection to the Sirius star system, which they believe is the home of their ancestors. They also have a complex mythology that includes several deities and spirits that are said to govern their lives.

As the episode progresses, we are introduced to some of the key figures in the study of the Dogon and their connection to Sirius. One of the most significant is anthropologist Marcel Griaule, who first documented the Dogon's astronomical knowledge in the 1930s. Through his interviews with Dogon elders, Griaule learned about their complex cosmology, including their knowledge of the orbit of Sirius B, a small, dense companion star to Sirius A that was not even visible with telescopes until the 1970s.

The episode then explores the various theories that have been put forth to explain the Dogon's knowledge of Sirius B. One possibility is that the Dogon were visited by ancient astronauts who imparted this knowledge to them. Another theory is that the Dogon themselves have a secret astronomical tradition that has been passed down through generations. However, most scientists today attribute the Dogon's knowledge to a combination of simple observation and deduction, combined with some lucky guesses.

The episode then delves into some of the other fascinating aspects of Dogon culture, including their intricate landscape art, their unique beliefs about the creation of the world, and their complex initiation rituals. We also meet some of the Dogon people themselves, who tell us about their daily lives and the challenges they face in the modern world.

Throughout the episode, we see stunning footage of the Mali landscape, as well as beautiful illustrations of Dogon mythology. We also hear from various experts in anthropology, astronomy, and other fields, who offer their perspectives on the significance of the Dogon and their connection to Sirius.

Overall, "Dogons and the Sirius Connection" is a thought-provoking and visually stunning exploration of the wonders of ancient culture and the mysteries of the universe. Whether you are a fan of anthropology, astronomy, or simply enjoy learning about different cultures, this episode is sure to leave you intrigued and inspired.