Summary of The Mound Builder Myth: Fake History and the Hunt for a "Lost White Race", by Jason Colavito

Dive into the captivating absurdity of 'The Mound Builder Myth' by Jason Colavito, where fake history meets the quest for a 'lost white race'.

Ah, the delightful realm of fake history-where facts take a backseat to wild theories and the quest for a mythical "lost white race" is what keeps historians up at night. In "The Mound Builder Myth: Fake History and the Hunt for a 'Lost White Race'", author Jason Colavito embarks on an archaeological rollercoaster, exposing the fascinatingly absurd narrative surrounding the Mound Builders of North America. Grab your popcorn, because this is a journey you won't want to miss!

Let's kick off with a little background, shall we? The Mound Builders were the ancient civilizations responsible for the impressive earthen mounds scattered across parts of the United States. In Colavito's account, these mounds are more than just dirt piles-they're the foundation of a conspiracy theory that would make any tabloid proud! The mythos claims that these sophisticated builders couldn't possibly be Indigenous peoples, so naturally, some folks decided that they must be the lost descendants of a "white race." Yes, you read that right-because who else could build impressive mounds if not our good friends in the Aryan club?

Colavito meticulously dissects this myth, presenting a thorough examination of how the narrative evolved and gained traction, particularly in the 19th century. Why? It turns out, the idea that only "civilized" white people could create such monumental works of art was deeply rooted in racism and a longing for a past where dudes in top hats were the masterminds behind everything cool. Spoiler alert: it's a nauseating blend of cultural appropriation and historical revisionism.

Moreover, Colavito shows how this "lost race" nonsense wasn't just an idle rumor, but rather had serious implications for how history-and, let's be real, race relations-was viewed in America. His research reveals not only the lengths to which people would go to manufacture evidence for their claims, but also the ways in which this myth has persisted, much like that one relative who comes to family gatherings and can't seem to let go of conspiracy theories.

Throughout the book, Colavito brings forth a colorful array of characters-from pseudo-archaeologists to the misguided enthusiasts of the time-while throwing shade like a seasoned comedian. Let's face it; trying to legitimize your beliefs by concocting a "lost race" is like trying to convince everyone you discovered unicorns. So let's raise a glass (of skepticism) to Colavito for unraveling these tangled webs of nonsense.

In conclusion, "The Mound Builder Myth" is not just a history lesson; it's a refreshing slap in the face to anyone who thinks historical accuracy is optional. Colavito doesn't just present the facts; he laughs at the absurdity of it all while deftly pointing out the societal implications of manufactured history. So buckle up for a wild ride through the land of fake history, where nothing is as it seems, and prepare to be both informed and entertained. Who knew that digging into the past could reveal so much about our present?

Maddie Page

Classics, bestsellers, and guilty pleasures-none are safe from my sarcastic recaps. I turn heavy reads into lighthearted summaries you can actually enjoy. Warning: may cause random outbursts of laughter while pretending to study literature.