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Deep Dive: The Real Amazons (2021)

Film Lens

The Real Amazons
The documentary focuses on the discovery of a burial site in Siberia from 2500 years ago, where archaeologists found a mummified child believed to be a warrior boy. The film follows the journey of Karis, who works at the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, as he attempts to analyze the child's DNA to uncover the child's ancestry. The analysis reveals unexpected results, leading to the conclusion that the child was actually a warrior girl, challenging long-held assumptions about gender roles in ancient cultures. Through the lens of this archaeological find, the film addresses the broader theme of warrior women throughout history, emphasizing how modern science is reshaping our understanding of the past. It features insights from Amy Briggs, the executive editor of National Geographic History, and shows the significance of recognizing the contributions of women in historical narratives.

Why Watch

  • •Meet Karis as he analyzes ancient DNA from Siberia.
  • •Find out how a burial site challenges gender assumptions.
  • •See the historical significance of warrior women in ancient cultures.

Did You Know

•In 1988, archaeologists discovered a burial site in Siberia dating back 2500 years.
•The burial contained a well-preserved mummified child with recognizable clothing and weapons.
•The analysis of the child's DNA revealed that it was a warrior girl, not a boy.
•The burial site belonged to an ancient nomadic culture known as the Scythians.

Perfect For

Ancient history enthusiastsFans of archaeologyGender studies advocates