America Unearthed Season 1 Episode 1 American Maya Secrets

In the premiere episode of America Unearthed season 1, titled "American Maya Secrets," host Scott Wolter delves into the mysterious world of the Maya civilization and their surprisingly extensive history within the United States.

Wolter begins his investigation by visiting a remote location in Georgia where several mounds have been found, similar to the structures built by the Maya elsewhere in the world. He meets with archaeologist Mark Williams who explains that the mounds were built by the indigenous people of the area, likely the ancestors of the Cherokee tribe, who were heavily influenced by the Maya culture.

Next, Wolter travels to Tennessee to investigate the Bat Creek stone, a controversial artifact that has been the subject of debate among archaeologists for years. The stone bears an inscription in a script that some believe is a form of ancient Hebrew, while others argue that it is a hoax. Wolter conducts his own examination of the stone and meets with scholars who offer theories on its origin.

From there, Wolter heads to a Maya-themed amusement park in Pennsylvania to investigate the site's creation and its connection to the actual Maya civilization. He speaks with the park's owner who discusses his research into the Maya culture and reveals that the park was designed to be an educational experience for children.

Throughout the episode, Wolter examines various pieces of evidence that suggest the Maya civilization had a significant presence in North America, including pottery, rock carvings, and ancient trade routes. He also discusses the possibility of the Maya influence on other Native American tribes, including the Hopi and the Creek.

Finally, Wolter travels to Mexico to visit the ancient Maya city of Chichen Itza and gain a deeper understanding of the culture and its achievements. He explores the impressive architecture of the city and speaks with experts to learn more about its history.

Overall, "American Maya Secrets" serves as an intriguing introduction to the wide-ranging influence of the Maya civilization and its little-known connection to the United States. Wolter's investigations provide a fascinating glimpse into a topic that is often overlooked in mainstream history.