The Vanderbilt Research Program in Guatemala is attracting national media attention after being featured on an episode of the History Channel's series "Warriors."
Each episode of "Warriors," hosted by Terry Schappert, examines the rituals, technology and strategies of a different warrior group, including the Spartans, Vikings and Samurai. "Maya Armageddon" will air this weekend and will include commentary from anthropology professor Arthur Demarest. He will speak about the history of the Mayan collapse and his research done in the ancient Maya capital city of Cancuen, Guatemala.
"(Programs like "Warriors") are important because academics need to reach out to the public. It's a major part of our job," said Demarest.
Demarest has contributed to over 200 articles and chapters in books on pre-Columbian archaeology, anthropology and religion. He has previously been featured on the History Channel, the Discovery Channel and in National Geographic.
Demarest is now in his 28th field season and has been researching the Mayan collapse since 1986. He spends around 8 months of the year on archaeological digs in Central America and has recently worked to develop the first school and clinic in the capital city. He was also a part of the Vanderbilt Research Program's decision to purchase a park site to be managed by Mayan people.
In addition to digging in Cancuen, Demarest and other researchers further examine artifacts such as ceramics and jade in laboratories in Guatemala City. Guatemala City is one of the richest cities in the country and is home to the largest source of jade in the world.
"Maya Armageddon" will focus on a battle that occurred around 800 A.D. in the city of Dos Pilas during which unknown invaders attacked the city and executed the royal family in Cancuen. This battle changed the Mayans' approach to warfare, and some historians believe it was a reason for the disappearance of the civilization.
"Students should tune in because the program talks about the collapse in a real way and provides a good angle on understanding warriors," said Demarest.
"Maya Armageddon" aired on Sunday at 11:00 p.m. and will air again today at 3:00 a.m.
