Anthro Dec 3rd - Google Docs

Historical Context
- Date: December 3rd, 1972
- Location: Mawangdui, China
- Time Period: 163 B.C., during the Han Dynasty
- Notable figure: Lady Dai, whose tomb was the focus of archaeological findings.
Discovery of the Tomb
- In 1971, workers were digging into a hill (100 ft deep) for excavation purposes.
- During a break, workers' cigarettes caused the ground to catch fire.
- Archaeologists were paid $100 to recapitate the project before recruiting students to dig further (50 ft).
- Eventually discovered three tombs, including that of Lady Dai.
Lady Dai's Tomb
- Designed to be superior; it was airtight and buried at a depth of 40 ft.
- The body was wrapped in 20 layers of silk, placed in a casket that had antibacterial properties.
- Surrounding her were 20 gallons of an unidentifiable substance containing magnesium and mercury, stored in three lacquer boxes.
- The tomb was humid and sealed with clay to limit oxygen and contaminants.
- The tomb's entrance was sealed with a layer of clay that was 3 ft thick.
Contents of the Tomb
- Over 3,000 items including silks, writings, musical instruments were found.
- Remarkably, blood type A was still present in her veins, and her soft tissue was well-preserved.
- 138 digested melon seeds discovered; dietary remains included wheat, strawberries, dates, pork, beef, and dog.

Origins of Vampire Myths
- The vampire legend is believed to originate from the Slavic people in Europe.
- Deaths related more to conflict than to natural causes.
Cultural Practices Regarding Death
- Prior to Christianity, it was common to cremate bodies to ensure the souls left peacefully.
- Anti-demonic practices involved forging items from metal, which were then placed on bodies to hinder any demonic influence.
Burials at Gregoicka
- Three burials included an iron object placed across the chest and pelvis, potentially as a protective measure against demons.

Historical Accounts
- Contains many writings, although often composed well after events occurred.
- Features figures like King Sverre Sigurdsson (King of Norway, 1152-1202).
Documented Events
- Includes detailed accounts of battles, strategies, and notable locations.
- Notably describes a conflict (1197) where King Sverre faced a surprise attack by the Roman Catholic Church, resulting in destruction and water poisoning to render the area uninhabitable.
Archaeological Discoveries
- In 1938, a body was found in a well, followed by further discoveries in 2004 that revealed genomic sequences related to this historical figure.