How Men Stole Civilization

For too long, we have failed to recognize the most important elements of a truly civilized society: political wisdom, cooperation, kindness … and women.

The Oldest True Stories in the World

Evidence gathered in recent years shows that some ancient narratives contain remarkably reliable records of real events.

In Spain’s Silence, Francisco Franco’s Memory Echoes

The dictator’s ghost has been haunting Spain for more than 40 years. It is high time for the country to confront its history.

Why Can’t Most Humans Drink Milk?

A 3,200-year-old piece of cheese from Egypt is providing more evidence about how humans evolved to consume dairy products.

The Mastodon in the Room

As new discoveries shake up the timeline of when people first came to the Americas, how do we decide what’s true?

How Do We Know Which Historical Accounts Are True?

For many years, scholars believed oral history was no more accurate than mythology. It turns out they were wrong.

The End of the World As We Know It

How do our societies change in the face of apocalypse, and what can we do to ensure our survival?

The Hidden Resilience of “Food Desert” Neighborhoods

Anthropologists and other scholars are delving into the plight of urban communities where people struggle to meet their nutritional needs. In the process, these researchers are discovering the power—and limits—of self-reliance.

As Seas Rise, Ancient Footprints Are Revealed

Coastlines around the world boast hints of ancient humans who gathered and traveled along the edges of the world, where land meets sea.

Why Are Some Caves Full of Shoes?

An archaeologist explores how shoes have embodied our identities through the ages.