Ep 3. Before Their Time: Ancient Technology

Before Their Time: Ancient Technology is the third episode of the fourth season of the television series Ancient Mysteries, which premiered on A&E network in the US on November 28th, 1996.

The episode explores the possibility that ancient civilizations possessed technological knowledge and capabilities far beyond what was previously believed. From the engineering feats of the Egyptian pyramids to the precision stone cutting methods of the Incas, the episode examines the evidence for advanced ancient technology and poses questions about how these feats were accomplished.

The episode begins by examining the Great Pyramid of Giza, one of the most remarkable architectural achievements in human history. It explores the incredibly precise measurements and complex orientation of the pyramid, which suggests a technological knowledge far beyond what was believed possible for the ancient Egyptians. The episode also examines the use of advanced tools and materials, such as copper saws, and the intricate logistics involved in transporting the millions of stone blocks used in the pyramid's construction.

The episode also explores other ancient engineering marvels, such as the Inca city of Machu Picchu. The advanced masonry techniques employed by the Incas, which allowed for the seamless fitting of massive stone blocks, suggest a level of technological sophistication previously thought impossible for the time. The episode examines the possibility of lost Incan technologies and the implications of such technologies for our understanding of ancient civilizations.

In addition to exploring specific instances of ancient technology, the episode also delves into the philosophical and sociological implications of advanced ancient civilizations. It asks questions about the reasons why such civilizations may have disappeared, and whether there is something to be learned from the fall of these societies.

Throughout the episode, experts in archaeology, engineering, and anthropology weigh in on the evidence presented and offer their own perspectives on what these advanced technologies mean for our understanding of human history.

Overall, Before Their Time: Ancient Technology is a thought-provoking examination of some of the most intriguing mysteries of the ancient world. It explores the possibility of advanced ancient technology and raises important questions about the limits of human knowledge and the history of our civilization.