Ancient Civilizations of North America Season 1 Episode 11 The Mississippian City of Cahokia

The Mississippian City of Cahokia is the eleventh episode of season one of the show Ancient Civilizations of North America. In this episode, we journey back in time to explore the fascinating history of the Mississippian civilization and its most prominent city, Cahokia.

Cahokia was once a thriving metropolis located in present-day Illinois that was home to an estimated 20,000 people in its heyday. The city was the cultural, religious, and economic center for the Mississippian people, who inhabited the region from around AD 800 to 1500.

The show takes us on a tour of the city, which had a layout that was unique for its time. Its central features were a large rectangular plaza surrounded by over 120 earthen mounds, some rising up to 100 feet in height. The show explores the purpose of these mounds, which were used for both ceremonial and residential purposes.

The episode also delves into the religious practices of the Mississippian people. The civilization practiced a complex religion that involved the worship of a pantheon of gods and goddesses who were associated with the natural world, such as the sun, moon, and stars. The show explores the various religious structures in Cahokia, including the famous Monk's Mound and the Woodhenge, which served as a solar calendar.

Additionally, the show covers the economic and technological advancements of the Mississippian people. The civilization was known for its agriculture, which was made possible by the construction of an intricate canal system that allowed for irrigation and flood control. The Mississippian people were also skilled artisans who produced a wide range of goods, from pottery to jewelry.

As we explore Cahokia and the surrounding Mississippian culture, we also learn about the civilization's ultimate decline. Scholars believe that factors such as overpopulation, environmental degradation, disease, and warfare all played a role in the civilization's demise.

Overall, The Mississippian City of Cahokia offers a fascinating look into the incredibly advanced civilizations that once existed in North America. The episode provides an in-depth examination of the people, culture, and innovations of the Mississippian civilization, and highlights the lasting impact of their legacy on American history.