Digging Up Ancient Aliens

Digging Up Ancient Aliens

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Digging Up Ancient Aliens episodes

  • Runestones and monsters: The Intersection of Archaeology and Myth

    Monsters have long captivated human imagination, and this episode delves into the fascinating legend of a lake monster in Sweden, specifically the creature said to inhabit Storsjön, or the Big Lake. This tale intertwines with regional identity and the historical significance of a runestone associated with the beast, which adds a unique layer to the narrative of monsters and archaeological artifacts. The legend, first documented by a Danish priest in the 17th century, highlights how folklore can shape local culture and community ties. However, the episode also sheds light on the darker implications of this myth, including the misuse of taxpayer funds in efforts to prove the monster's existence. Ultimately, it raises important questions about pseudoscience, historical narratives, and the balance between cultural heritage and fiscal responsibility.

    Chapters:

    • 00:01 - Introduction to Monsters
    • 01:07 - The Sturgeon Monster of Sweden
    • 01:56 - The Legend of the Runestone
    • 02:21 - Historical Context of the Monster
    • 05:40 - The Role of the Runestone in Local Identity
    • 11:43 - Modern Implications and Taxpayer Costs
    • 20:33 - The Pseudoscience of the Sea Monster
    • 21:00 - Conclusion and Reflections

    This is part of the Real Archaeology event. For a full list of participants, see https://real-archaeology.com/

    Contact:
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    22 min
  • Unmasking the Myths of Crystal Skulls: Fact vs. Fiction

    The legend of crystal skulls captivates the imagination, interweaving tales of ancient wisdom, extraterrestrial artifacts, and mystical powers. However, a closer examination reveals that many of these claims are steeped in modern invention rather than historical fact. Frederick meticulously investigates the origins of the most notorious crystal skulls, notably the Mitchell-Hedges Skull, which has been venerated by some as an ancient artifact with supernatural qualities. Contrary to popular belief, extensive research indicates that these skulls were likely manufactured in Germany, utilizing modern tools and techniques that were not available to ancient civilizations.

    Throughout this captivating exploration, Frederick addresses the pseudoscientific narratives that have proliferated around these skulls, exposing the lack of credible evidence supporting their supposed ancient origins. The episode further critiques the appropriation of Indigenous cultures in the promotion of these myths, spotlighting how New Age movements often fabricate connections to Native American spiritual practices to enhance the allure of these artifacts. The discussion serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of misrepresenting cultural histories and the commercialization of spiritual beliefs, reminding listeners that the enchanting stories surrounding crystal skulls are often just that—stories—rather than grounded realities. Ultimately, this episode calls for a more nuanced understanding of these artifacts, advocating for recognition of their artistic value while dispelling the myths that have overshadowed their true origins.

    A fully sourced transcript can be found at the episode page at: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/episode-72-the-crystal-skulls

    Remember to visit Real-Archaeology.com to learn more about the event, which will take place between October 25 and October 27, 2024!

    Chapters:
    • 00:00 - Introduction to the Podcast
    • 00:43 - Exploring the Crystal Skulls
    • 02:45 - The Myth of the Crystal Skulls
    • 06:15 - The Mitchell-Hedges Skull Story
    • 14:05 - Debunking the Myths: Scientific Analysis
    • 18:26 - Plastic Shamanism and Cultural Misappropriation
    • 20:53 - Commercialization of Crystal Myths
    • 26:11 - Conclusion: Fact vs Fiction
    • 30:02 - Outro and Acknowledgments

    Contact:
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    Music

    The intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named “Folie hatt” by Trallskruv. Visit Trallskruvs website here

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    34 min
  • Merlin, Moses, and Magic: Debunking Ancient Alien Theories

    Is magic real? Ancient Alien theorists claim that it is, but not really. They claim that descriptions of magic are just misunderstood alien technology. Together with Archaeosoup and Michelle Franklin, we are going to investigate these theories. We'll cover modern magicians, the famous Merlin, and whether Moses from the Bible had access to alien technology.

    You can find more from Archaeosoup here:

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiJCpRC9BvG-xIlYImiNN0g

    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/archaeosoup

    More of Michelle Franklin can be found here:

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@authormichellefranklin

    Michelle Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newshortstories

    Contact:
    • Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.com
    • Email: [email protected]
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    • Store: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/merch

    Become a supporter! Sign up for Patreon or membership here: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/support

    Music

    The intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named “Folie hatt” by Trallskruv. Visit Trallskruvs website here

    Support the show!

    We have a members portal and a Patreon; both have the same levels and bonuses.

    Join Patreon here

    Member Portal

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    Mentioned in this episode:

    Download Histourian today!

    Histourian – a guide through history at your fingertips. Available now on the App Store and Google Play.

    Histourian

    2 hr 20 min
  • The Kensington Runestone - hoaxes, Templars and the Holy Grail

    This time, we will look at the infamous Kensington Runestone found in the USA and the claims made by Scott Wolter from America Unearthed. Is the stone evidence of templars and Scandinavians in the US? Or is it a creation in modern times?

    In Digging up Ancient Aliens, our host Fredrik uses his background in archaeology to discover what is genuine, fake, and somewhere in between in popular media, such as Ancient Aliens, Ancient Apocalypse, and many other places.

    In this episode:

    • What is the Kensington Runestone? 00:01:51
    • Let the runes speak 00:07:39
    • New or old Swedish? 00:21:31
    • The hooked X does not mark the spot 00:26:37
    • Numbers and runes 00:32:51
    • Kensington runestone and archaeology 00:45:22
    • KRS and geology 00:49:49
    • River kings without rivers 00:54:24
    • Here come the templars 00:56:24
    • Why and who? 01:04:15

    Find the transcript and sources for this episode here: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/episode-70-the-kensington-runestone

    Histourian

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    • Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.com
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    Music

    The intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named “Folie hatt” by Trallskruv. Visit Trallskruvs website here

    Image in cover art: Lorie Shaull from flikr

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Download Histourian today!

    Histourian – a guide through history at your fingertips. Available now on the App Store and Google Play.

    Histourian

    1 hr 16 min
  • Vikings!

    We are going on an excursion to a place of power in the Viking world. Let's explore where the Jarl of Birka most likely had their residence. We will also talk about the work of one of Sweden's first female archaeologists and slavery within the Viking world.

    Histourian

    Contact:
    • Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.com
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    We have a members portal and a Patreon; both have the same levels and bonuses.

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    Music

    The intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named “Folie hatt” by Trallskruv. Visit Trallskruvs website here

    40 min
  • The great pseudo archaeology quiz

    In this extraordinary episode I'm going head to head with Mark, or as he is better known, Archaeosoup. Who is the most knowledgeable regarding pseudo-archaeology? Only one can emerge victorious from this battle!

    The quiz was created and hosted initially by the very gracious Michelle Franklin. Links to both Michelle and Mark are found here below.

    Remember, we do not do dinosaurs!

    Michelle Franklin:

    https://youtube.com/@authormichellefranklin?si=2ofmCIfDnukLYTUh

    Archaeosoup:

    https://youtube.com/@archaeos0up?si=8hwKopcaDgvwBSOy

    Histourian

    Contact:
    • Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.com
    • Email: [email protected]
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    Support the show!

    We have a members portal and a Patreon; both have the same levels and bonuses.

    Join Patreon here

    Member Portal

    Music

    The intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named “Folie hatt” by Trallskruv. Visit Trallskruvs website here

    ArchPodNet
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    Mentioned in this episode:

    Download Histourian today!

    Histourian – a guide through history at your fingertips. Available now on the App Store and Google Play.

    Histourian

    1 hr 54 min
  • A kinda true story

    This is the finale of our summer special. The second part of Lucian of Samosata's novel “A True Story.” While the first part is filled with space travels and battles on distant planets, this part will deal with other topics. What was Homer's true nationality, why Pythagoras didn’t like his victory meal, and if Herodotus were sent to the Greek version of hell for his accounts?

    Lucian of Samosata, a second-century CE author, penned what some consider the first science fiction novel in history, "A True Story." Lucian vividly describes space travel, intergalactic battles, alien beings, and even alien abductions in this short story. However, rather than attempting to write a sci-fi epic, Lucian's work is a satirical critique of contemporary travel books and historical accounts. In this episode, we'll continue to look at Lucian's imaginative narrative and see how it gives us a unique window into the ancient world.

    Remember to check out our sponsor, Histourian! Histourian

    Contact:
    • Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.com
    • Email: [email protected]
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    • Store: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/merch

    Become a supporter! Sign up for Patreon or membership here: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/support

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    We have a members portal and a Patreon; both have the same levels and bonuses.

    Join Patreon here

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    Music

    The intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named “Folie hatt” by Trallskruv. Visit Trallskruvs website here

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Download Histourian today!

    Histourian – a guide through history at your fingertips. Available now on the App Store and Google Play.

    Histourian

    59 min
  • A True Story

    In this summer special episode, while traveling and soaking up the sun, I found myself contemplating a different kind of travel—space travel. Inspired by the frequent claims made in "Ancient Aliens" that ancient myths and stories actually describe UFOs and space rockets using the vocabulary of the time, I wanted to explore this concept further. However, I often find these interpretations to be misleading or misrepresentative of the original texts. This sparked an intriguing thought: How would an ancient person genuinely describe space travel?

    Enter Lucian of Samosata, a second-century CE author who penned what some consider the first science fiction novel in history, "A True Story." In this short story, Lucian vividly describes space travel, intergalactic battles, alien beings, and even alien abductions. However, rather than attempting to write a sci-fi epic, Lucian's work is actually a satirical critique of contemporary travel books and historical accounts. In this episode, we'll delve into Lucian's imaginative narrative and see how it gives us a unique window into ancient perceptions of space travel.

    Check out our sponsor: Histourian

    Support the show!

    We have a members portal and a Patreon; both have the same levels and bonuses.

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    Contact:
    • Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.com
    • Email: [email protected]
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    Music

    The intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named “Folie hatt” by Trallskruv. Visit Trallskruvs website here

    ArchPodNet
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    Mentioned in this episode:

    Download Histourian today!

    Histourian – a guide through history at your fingertips. Available now on the App Store and Google Play.

    Histourian

    50 min
  • Europe's only ancient pyramid (and Colosseum myths)

    This episode will be a bit different than normal. First, it was recorded in Rome. Secondly, there will not be too many aliens. Don't worry, it will be a fun one, we will finally find Europe's only ancient pyramid. They were not in Bosnia or Greece but in Italy all along. Then we'll bust some Colosseum myths and talk a little about Romes's obsession with moving obelisks.

    In this episode:

    Europe's only ancient pyramid 2:08

    Colosseum 8:10

    Nero didn't start the fire; it was always burning, as the world kept turning 10:48

    For those about to rock 16:50

    You sank my battleship 22:32

    Gladiatrix 25:32

    Obelisks in Rome 29:00

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    Contact:
    • Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.com
    • Email: [email protected]
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    • Store: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/merch

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    Support the show!

    We have a members portal and a Patreon; both have the same levels and bonuses.

    Join Patreon here

    Member Portal

    Music

    The intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named “Folie hatt” by Trallskruv. Visit Trallskruvs website here

    ArchPodNet
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    Mentioned in this episode:

    Download Histourian today!

    Histourian – a guide through history at your fingertips. Available now on the App Store and Google Play.

    Histourian

    45 min
  • Silencing history and memory in the Christ of Europe

    This time, we are going to do something a little bit different. We will do a case study of a country where the government has started to promote its preferred historical narrative. While some might not call that alternative history or pseudo-history, I would argue that this is overlapping. So we will look at Poland and its memory laws, how the government is policing museums, and trying to silence research on Polish complicity in the Holocaust. We will also look at Polish history to see how it came to be and what national memory they draw from.

    We will look at how they create emotionally triggering museums while leaving out the parts of history that put Poland in a bad light. We will see how PiS, the ruling party, is trying to silence museum directors and professors who don't follow the party line. In the past, we have discussed how governments in Bosnia and Indonesia have used state funds to promote psuedoscience. This isn't too far off, just fewer aliens and lost civilizations. But it is still essential to keep our eyes on this pseudo-history in times like this.

    Videos you hear in the episode:

    The Unconquered:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q88AkN1hNYM

    Dziewczyna z granatem:

    https://youtu.be/6pTPMq4ZrGw?si=uYA_my0qMturS-vU

    You will find sources on the episode page with a full transcript: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/episode-64-christ-of-europe

    Contact:
    • Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.com
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook: facebook.com/Digging-up-Ancient-Aliens-108173641647111/
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    • Store: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/merch

    Become a supporter! Sign up for Patreon or membership here: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/support

    Music

    The intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named “Folie hatt” by Trallskruv. Visit Trallskruvs website here

    Support the show!

    We have a members portal and a Patreon; both have the same levels and bonuses.

    Join Patreon here

    Member Portal

    ArchPodNet
    • APN Website: https://www.archpodnet.com
    • APN on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/archpodnet
    • APN on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/archpodnet
    • APN on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/archpodnet
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    58 min

About Digging Up Ancient Aliens

From the publisher's feed

Come along with archaeologist Fredrik as he leads a critical exploration into alternative historical theories and the portrayal of Ancient Aliens in mainstream media on our podcast, Digging Up Ancient Aliens. With his guidance, you'll be able to distinguish fact from fiction and expand your knowledge alongside him. Whether you're a seasoned skeptic, a history enthusiast, or simply intrigued by extraterrestrial life, this podcast is a must-listen.