What's it about?

Charles C. Mann's "1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus" challenges traditional understandings of pre-Columbian America. The book explores recent archaeological and scientific findings that reveal sophisticated civilizations and large populations with significant environmental impact. Mann examines the complex histories of societies like the Maya, Inca, and those of the Mississippi Valley, highlighting their advanced knowledge and societal organization. It also scrutinizes the encounters between Europeans and Native Americans, questioning long-held beliefs about the reasons for European dominance. Ultimately, the book argues for a reassessment of Native American history, emphasizing their active role in shaping their world and the profound consequences of their decline after 1492.