Synopsis
Barry Fell’s America B.C.: Ancient Settlers in the New World is a groundbreaking exploration of the controversial theory that ancient Old World civilizations reached the Americas long before Columbus. Drawing on evidence from linguistics, archaeology, and epigraphy, Fell presents a compelling argument for pre-Columbian transoceanic contact. The book challenges conventional historical narratives, proposing that groups such as the Phoenicians, Celts, Libyans, and even Egyptians may have made voyages to the New World and left behind traces of their presence.
Fell’s primary evidence comes from inscriptions and petroglyphs found throughout North America, which he claims bear striking similarities to ancient scripts used in the Old World. He meticulously examines carvings and symbols in locations ranging from New England to the Midwest, decoding them as remnants of ancient writing systems like Ogham, Iberian, and Punic scripts. By linking these findings to known cultural and linguistic patterns from Europe and North Africa, Fell argues that these inscriptions serve as proof of early explorers and settlers.
The book also delves into cultural and technological parallels between the Old and New Worlds, including similarities in agricultural practices, religious symbols, and architectural styles. Fell theorizes that transatlantic and transpacific voyages were not only possible but likely facilitated by advanced maritime knowledge that predates commonly accepted timelines. He suggests that ancient explorers were motivated by trade, exploration, or even colonization, leading them to establish brief or semi-permanent settlements in the Americas.
While America B.C. is rich in detail and offers a fresh perspective on pre-Columbian history, it has sparked significant controversy. Critics have questioned the validity of Fell’s translations and his methodology, accusing him of drawing speculative connections without sufficient corroborating evidence. Nonetheless, the book has fueled debate and inspired further research into the possibility of ancient global contacts, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of alternative archaeology.
Fell’s work, written in an engaging and accessible style, captures the imagination of readers intrigued by the idea that ancient civilizations were far more interconnected than traditionally believed. Whether embraced as revolutionary or dismissed as pseudoscience, America B.C. remains a thought-provoking contribution to the study of ancient history and human migration.