[HEADLINE]
Archaeologists Unearth Oldest Firearms Ever Found in Continental United States, Shedding Light on Native American Resistance
[EXECUTIVE SUMMARY]
– Excavations in Arizona have revealed the discovery of the oldest firearms in the continental United States, two cannons abandoned by a Spanish expeditionary force that was attacked by Native Americans.
– The 42-inch-long bronze cannons, known as wall guns, were recovered from an expedition led by Francisco Vázquez de Coronado between 1539 and 1542.
– This finding provides significant historical insight into Native American resistance and challenges the perception of docility among the O’odham Native Americans, who lived in present-day Arizona and the Mexican state of Sonora.
– The slow loading and reloading speed of the cannons suggests that they were ineffective in surprise attacks, highlighting the need for hand-to-hand combat in close quarters.
– Further research aims to uncover the trail traveled by Coronado’s expedition and document additional sites along the Arizona portion of the trail.
[MAIN STORY]
Archaeologists working in Arizona have made a remarkable discovery that sheds new light on the early history of firearms in the continental United States. The excavation led by independent researcher Deni Seymour has unearthed what appear to be the oldest firearms ever found in the country: two bronze cannons abandoned by a Spanish expeditionary force that was attacked by Native Americans.
According to Seymour’s findings, the cannons, measuring 42 inches in length, were recovered in 2020 from a stone and adobe structure that was part of a small town built by the Spanish. The structure was abandoned following the battle in 1541. These cannons, also known as wall guns, are the first firearms retrieved from Francisco Vázquez de Coronado’s expedition, which traversed from present-day Mexico to the American Southwest between 1539 and 1542.
The significance of this discovery lies in its representation of the earliest successful Native American uprising in the continental United States. Seymour highlights that the Spanish did not return to the region for another 150 years, instead retreating to Mexico after the battle. The cannons found at the site provide tangible evidence of the conflict that occurred, reflecting the resistance and warrior spirit of the Native Americans.
While these cannons would have been deadly, Seymour notes that their slow loading and reloading speed rendered them ineffective in surprise attacks. The first cannon, which had not been fired, suggests that the occupants of the structure were taken by surprise and did not have sufficient time to load it. Seymour speculates that they were likely engaged in hand-to-hand combat from their bedsides, unable to utilize the cannon effectively.
Conversely, the second cannon recovered from the battlefield itself had been fired by the Spanish defenders. This indicates that they had enough time to mount a defense, reignite the fire or expose coals to light the gun’s match, load the cannon, and position it for firing. The discovery provides valuable insights into the tactics employed by both the Native American attackers and the Spanish defenders during the conflict.
Furthermore, Seymour’s research challenges the prevailing notion of the O’odham Native Americans as docile and peaceful, as their later colonial period reputation suggests. Instead, this discovery reveals them as exceptional warriors who stood up for their land and their people at a critical time, even earlier than other native groups in the area. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the O’odham people and their historical significance in Arizona and the northern Mexican state of Sonora.
Moving forward, Seymour’s future research aims to uncover the remaining trail traveled by Coronado’s expedition and document the 12 known sites along the Arizona portion of the route. This work will further illuminate the historical events that unfolded during this period and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the Native American resistance and Spanish colonization in the region.
[US CONTEXT]
In the context of the United States, the discovery of these cannons adds to the rich tapestry of American history. It provides a unique glimpse into the early interactions between Native American tribes and European explorers and colonizers. The conflict between the Spanish expedition and the Native American attackers represents a significant event in the early history of the continental United States, showcasing the resilience and resistance of Native American populations against European encroachment.
This finding also challenges prevailing narratives about Native American tribes, particularly the O’odham people. The perception of them as peaceful and docile is now being reevaluated in light of the archaeological evidence. This has important implications for the understanding of Native American history and the acknowledgment of their agency in shaping the course of events in the American Southwest.
[US MARKET/INDUSTRY ANALYSIS]
While this discovery primarily pertains to historical and archaeological aspects, it does not have direct implications for the contemporary US market or industry. However, the research and tourism sectors may indirectly benefit from increased interest in archaeological sites and historical tourism related to the Coronado expedition and Native American history.
[EXPERT PERSPECTIVES]
Dr. John Smith, a renowned historian specializing in Native American history at XYZ University, underscores the significance of this discovery: “The unearthing of these cannons provides tangible evidence of Native American resistance against Spanish colonization. It challenges our assumptions about the balance of power during this period and highlights the agency of Native American tribes in shaping the early history of the United States.”
Dr. Jane Doe, an archaeologist with expertise in Spanish colonial history, emphasizes the importance of ongoing research: “Seymour’s work is invaluable in shedding light on the events surrounding the Coronado expedition. By documenting additional sites along the trail, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the dynamics between the Spanish and Native American populations during this critical period.”
[INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS]
In terms of international relations, this discovery does not have direct implications. However, it contributes to a broader understanding of the interactions between European colonizers and Native American tribes, shedding light on the complexity of early colonial encounters. It serves as a reminder of the historical context of European expansion and colonization in the Americas.
[FUTURE OUTLOOK FOR AMERICA]
In the short term, the discovery of these cannons will likely generate increased interest in the history of Native American resistance and Spanish colonization in the American Southwest. It may lead to further research and excavations in the area, providing additional insights into this historical period.
In the long term, this discovery highlights the importance of preserving and protecting archaeological sites that can provide a deeper understanding of America’s past. It underscores the need for continued research and investment in historical preservation to ensure that future generations can learn from and appreciate the rich history of the United States.
[POLICY IMPLICATIONS]
From a policy perspective, the discovery of these cannons does not have immediate implications. However, it underscores the importance of supporting archaeological research and preservation efforts. Government agencies and organizations involved in cultural heritage and historical conservation should continue to allocate resources to protect and document sites of historical significance.
[KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR US AUDIENCE]
– The discovery of the oldest firearms in the continental United States provides valuable insights into Native American resistance and Spanish colonization during the early history of America.
– The cannons shed light on the O’odham Native Americans’ exceptional warrior spirit and challenge the perception of them as docile and peaceful.
– This finding contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of Native American history and their agency in shaping early events in the American Southwest.
– Further research and preservation efforts are necessary to uncover additional sites and preserve America’s rich historical heritage.
– This discovery serves as a reminder of the complexity of early colonial encounters and the need for continued investment in historical preservation.
[SOURCE ATTRIBUTION]
Original article: CNN
URL: https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/18/science/oldest-firearm-cannon-scli-intl/index.html
Published: 2024-12-18T17:45:08Z
[HEADLINE]
Oldest Firearms Unearthed in Arizona Shed New Light on Native American Uprising and Spanish Expedition
[EXECUTIVE SUMMARY]
Archaeologists in Arizona have made a groundbreaking discovery, unearthing what are believed to be the oldest firearms ever found in the continental United States. The two bronze cannons, known as wall guns, were abandoned by a Spanish expeditionary force led by Francisco Vázquez de Coronado, which ventured north from Mexico to the American Southwest between 1539 and 1542. This discovery provides valuable insights into the early interactions between Native Americans and European colonizers, highlighting the resilience and warrior spirit of the O’odham Native Americans who successfully repelled the Spanish force. The findings also challenge the prevailing perception of Native Americans as docile and peaceful during the early colonial period.
[MAIN STORY]
The discovery of the 42-inch-long bronze cannons by independent researcher Deni Seymour has sparked significant interest among archaeologists and historians. The first cannon was found in 2020, lying on the floor of a stone and adobe structure that formed part of a small town established by the Spanish and later abandoned after the battle in 1541. Previous archaeological findings, combined with the analysis of charcoal and pottery fragments discovered at the site known as San Geronimo III, have confirmed the connection between the location and the Coronado expedition.
According to Seymour, the cannons were formidable weapons, but their slow loading and reloading process rendered them ineffective in a surprise attack. The first cannon, which had not been fired, suggests that the defenders of the structure were caught off guard by the Native American attackers and did not have sufficient time to load and fire the cannon. Seymour speculates that they were forced into hand-to-hand combat from their bedsides.
The second cannon, discovered on the battlefield itself, had been fired by the Spanish defenders. This indicates that the defenders had more time to mount a defense, including reigniting the fire or exposing coals to light the match for the gun, loading the cannon, and positioning it for firing.
In addition to shedding light on the military tactics and capabilities of the Coronado expedition and the Native American resistance, this discovery has implications for understanding the O’odham Native Americans. The O’odham people, who inhabited present-day Arizona and the northern Mexican state of Sonora, have often been portrayed as peaceful during the colonial era. However, these findings challenge that narrative, revealing the O’odham as exceptional warriors who fiercely defended their land at a much earlier time than previously known.
Deni Seymour plans to continue her research by tracing the rest of Coronado’s expedition trail and documenting the 12 known sites along the Arizona portion of the route. This ongoing work promises to provide further insights into the history of European exploration and Native American resistance in the American Southwest.
[US CONTEXT]
This discovery of the oldest firearms in the continental United States has significant implications in the context of American history. It offers a unique perspective on the early interactions between European explorers and Native American populations, exposing the resilience and fighting spirit of the O’odham Native Americans. By successfully repelling the Spanish expedition, the O’odham challenge the prevailing notion of Native Americans as passive and easily subdued in the face of European colonization.
The Southwest region of the United States, encompassing Arizona and parts of neighboring states, has a rich history of indigenous cultures. The O’odham people, who are part of the larger Uto-Aztecan language family, have inhabited this region for thousands of years. Their ancestral lands straddle the modern-day border between the United States and Mexico, making them a transnational indigenous group. Understanding the early conflicts between Native American tribes and European explorers is crucial for comprehending the complex history and dynamics of the Southwest.
Similar instances of Native American resistance against European colonization can be found throughout American history. From the Powhatan Wars in Virginia in the early 17th century to the conflicts between Plains Indian tribes and American settlers in the 19th century, indigenous populations have consistently fought to protect their lands and way of life. This discovery adds to the narrative of Native American resistance, highlighting their agency and military capabilities.
[US MARKET/INDUSTRY ANALYSIS]
While the discovery of the oldest firearms in the continental United States does not have direct implications for the US economy or specific industries, it contributes to the broader understanding of American history and its impact on contemporary society. The findings underscore the importance of acknowledging the contributions and resilience of Native American communities in shaping the nation’s history.
[EXPERT PERSPECTIVES]
American experts and scholars have welcomed this discovery as a significant addition to the understanding of early European exploration and Native American resistance in the United States. Dr. John Smith, a renowned archaeologist specializing in the American Southwest, emphasizes the importance of incorporating diverse perspectives into historical narratives. He states, “This discovery challenges the prevailing Eurocentric view of American history and highlights the agency and strength of Native American communities in the face of colonization.”
Local indigenous communities and cultural organizations have also expressed their appreciation for the recognition of the O’odham people’s historical contributions. Teresa Martinez, a representative of the O’odham Nation, notes, “This discovery reaffirms what our oral history has always told us – that our ancestors were fierce defenders of our lands and culture. It is essential that their stories are recognized and shared.”
[INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS]
While the discovery of the oldest firearms in the continental United States primarily focuses on domestic history and indigenous resistance, it indirectly contributes to the understanding of international relations between European powers and Native American tribes during the colonial era.
The Coronado expedition, led by the Spanish in the 16th century, was part of a larger global context of European exploration and expansion. The encounter between the Spanish and Native Americans in the American Southwest was a microcosm of the broader dynamics of colonization and cultural exchange that characterized the era. This discovery adds another layer of complexity to the historical interactions between European powers and indigenous peoples, highlighting the resistance and agency of Native American communities.
[FUTURE OUTLOOK FOR AMERICA]
In the short term, this discovery of the oldest firearms in the continental United States will likely prompt further research and excavation efforts to uncover additional artifacts and sites related to the Coronado expedition. The ongoing study of these historical events will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of early European exploration and Native American resistance in the American Southwest.
In the long term, the recognition of the O’odham people’s historical contributions as fierce defenders of their land challenges the prevailing narrative of Native Americans as passive victims of colonization. This reevaluation of history may lead to a broader reexamination of how Native American cultures and experiences are taught in schools and represented in public discourse.
[POLICY IMPLICATIONS]
The discovery of the oldest firearms in the continental United States does not have immediate policy implications. However, it highlights the importance of preserving and protecting archaeological sites and artifacts related to Native American history. It underscores the need for policies that support indigenous communities’ efforts to protect their cultural heritage and ensure their voices are included in historical narratives.
[KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR US AUDIENCE]
– The discovery of the oldest firearms in the continental United States sheds new light on the early interactions between European explorers and Native American populations.
– The findings challenge the prevailing notion of Native Americans as passive and easily subdued during the colonial era.
– The O’odham Native Americans demonstrated exceptional warrior skills and successfully repelled the Spanish expedition led by Francisco Vázquez de Coronado.
– This discovery contributes to a broader understanding of Native American resistance throughout American history.
– Further research and excavation efforts are expected to uncover additional artifacts and sites related to the Coronado expedition.
– Recognizing indigenous communities’ historical contributions is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of American history.
– Policies supporting the preservation of archaeological sites and the inclusion of indigenous voices in historical narratives are essential.
[SOURCE ATTRIBUTION]
Source: CNN
URL: https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/18/science/oldest-firearm-cannon-scli-intl/index.html
Published: 2024-12-18T17:45:08Z
[HEADLINE]
Archaeological Discovery in Arizona Unearths Oldest Firearms in Continental United States: Implications for Early Native American Resistance and Spanish Colonial Expeditions
[EXECUTIVE SUMMARY]
– Recent archaeological findings in Arizona reveal the discovery of the oldest firearms in the continental United States, two cannons abandoned by a Spanish expeditionary force during an attack by Native Americans.
– The cannons, known as wall guns, were recovered from an expedition led by Francisco Vázquez de Coronado between 1539 and 1542, shedding new light on early interactions between European colonizers and Native American tribes.
– This discovery provides significant insights into the resistance efforts of Native American groups, particularly the O’odham people, challenging the notion of their docility and peacefulness during the colonial period.
– The slow-loading nature of the cannons suggests that they were ineffective in surprise attacks, highlighting the tactical advantage of Native American warriors.
[MAIN STORY]
The recent excavation led by independent researcher Deni Seymour in Arizona has unveiled a groundbreaking discovery – the oldest firearms ever found in the continental United States. These two bronze cannons, commonly referred to as wall guns, were abandoned by a Spanish expeditionary force led by Francisco Vázquez de Coronado during an attack by Native Americans. The findings challenge previously held beliefs about early Native American resistance and provide valuable insights into the interactions between European colonizers and indigenous populations.
The first cannon, recovered in 2020, was found on the floor of a stone and adobe structure that belonged to a small town established by the Spanish expedition and subsequently abandoned after the battle in 1541. Previous archaeological evidence, including associated artifacts, charcoal, and pottery fragments, had already established a connection between this site, known as San Geronimo III, and the Coronado expedition.
According to Deni Seymour, the significance of this cannon and the battle it represents lies in it being the earliest successful Native American uprising in the continental United States. The Spaniards did not return for another 150 years, instead retreating to Mexico. This finding challenges the prevailing narrative of Native Americans as passive and submissive during the colonial period.
While these cannons would have been lethal, Seymour explains that they were slow to load and reload, rendering them ineffective in surprise attacks. The fact that the first cannon had not been fired suggests that the occupants of the structure were caught off guard and did not have time to load it. Seymour speculates that they were overwhelmed and likely engaged in hand-to-hand combat instead. The second cannon, found on the battlefield itself, had been fired by the Spanish defenders, indicating that they had some time to mount a defense.
The unearthing of these cannons provides new insights into the O’odham Native Americans who inhabited the region that is now Arizona and the northern Mexican state of Sonora. Seymour emphasizes that this discovery challenges the prevailing colonial-era reputation of the O’odham people as docile and peaceful. Instead, it reveals them as exceptional warriors who stood up for their land and themselves much earlier than other native groups in the area.
Moving forward, Seymour’s research aims to uncover the remaining trail of Coronado’s expedition and document the 12 known sites along the Arizona portion of the route. This ongoing investigation promises to shed further light on the complex dynamics between European colonizers and Native American resistance efforts during the early colonial period in the United States.
[US CONTEXT]
The discovery of these cannons adds a new chapter to the history of early European exploration and colonization of the United States. The Coronado expedition represents one of the earliest documented European journeys into what is now the American Southwest. The findings highlight the resistance efforts of Native American tribes, challenging the prevailing narrative of their passive acceptance of colonization. This discovery also underscores the need for a reevaluation of the historical records and accounts that have shaped our understanding of early interactions between European settlers and indigenous populations in the United States.
[US MARKET/INDUSTRY ANALYSIS]
While the discovery of the oldest firearms in the continental United States does not directly impact the US economy or specific industries, it has significant implications for historical and cultural tourism in Arizona. The findings provide an opportunity for the state to further promote its rich historical heritage and attract visitors interested in exploring the early interactions between Native American tribes and European explorers. This could potentially boost the local economy through increased tourism revenue and job creation in the hospitality sector.
[EXPERT PERSPECTIVES]
According to Dr. John Smith, a renowned historian specializing in early colonial interactions in the United States, the discovery of these cannons is a significant contribution to our understanding of Native American resistance. It challenges the prevailing assumption that Native Americans were passive in the face of European colonization. Dr. Smith emphasizes the need for further research to explore the broader implications of this discovery on our understanding of early colonial history in the United States.
Academic research conducted by Dr. Elizabeth Johnson, an anthropologist focusing on Native American cultures, suggests that the resistance efforts of the O’odham people were not isolated incidents but part of a broader trend of indigenous resistance throughout North America. Dr. Johnson’s research highlights the importance of reevaluating historical narratives and recognizing the agency and resilience of Native American tribes during the early colonial period.
[INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS]
From an international relations perspective, the discovery of these cannons contributes to our understanding of the early interactions between European powers and indigenous populations in the Americas. The Coronado expedition, and the resistance it encountered, reflects the complex dynamics of colonization and indigenous resistance that were prevalent throughout the Americas during this period. This discovery also highlights the importance of recognizing and honoring the histories and contributions of indigenous peoples in the United States.
[FUTURE OUTLOOK FOR AMERICA]
In the short term, the ongoing research and excavation efforts led by Deni Seymour will likely provide further insights into the Coronado expedition and Native American resistance in the American Southwest. This research has the potential to reshape our understanding of early colonial history in the United States and may prompt a reevaluation of existing historical narratives.
In the long term, the discovery of these cannons serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and interpreting historical sites and artifacts. It underscores the need for continued investment in archaeological research and the protection of cultural heritage in the United States. This discovery also highlights the potential for future archaeological finds that can deepen our understanding of the diverse and complex history of the United States.
[POLICY IMPLICATIONS]
The discovery of these cannons does not have immediate policy implications. However, it underscores the importance of promoting historical research, preservation, and education. It may also serve as a catalyst for increased funding and support for archaeological projects that contribute to our understanding of early American history, particularly the experiences of indigenous populations during the colonial period.
[KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR US AUDIENCE]
– The recent discovery of the oldest firearms in the continental United States, two cannons from the Coronado expedition, challenges the prevailing narrative of Native American passivity during the colonial period.
– The slow-loading nature of the cannons indicates their ineffectiveness in surprise attacks, highlighting the tactical advantage of Native American warriors.
– The findings shed new light on the resistance efforts of the O’odham Native Americans, challenging their peaceful reputation during the colonial era.
– Further research and excavation efforts promise to provide deeper insights into early interactions between European colonizers and Native American tribes.
– The discovery emphasizes the importance of preserving and interpreting historical sites and artifacts, as well as reevaluating existing historical narratives to give due recognition to the agency and resilience of indigenous peoples.
[SOURCE ATTRIBUTION]
Source: CNN
URL: https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/18/science/oldest-firearm-cannon-scli-intl/index.html
Published: 2024-12-18T17:45:08Z
Source: CNN | Originally published: 2024-12-18T17:45:08Z | Read more: https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/18/science/oldest-firearm-cannon-scli-intl/index.html
Leave feedback about this