Seeing Centuries, Part 2
RJ Andrews' post on Chartography explores visualizing human history, integrating modern and ancient timelines, and discusses biases in historical representation. He hints at a future discovery and promotes his upcoming book.
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RJ Andrews' latest post on Chartography, "Seeing Centuries, Part 2," continues the exploration of visualizing human history, building on a previous discussion about pivotal events in U.S. history. Andrews reflects on a conversation with Casey Cripe from the Long Now Foundation, which inspired him to consider how recorded history and human migration could be visualized together. He discusses the concept of vertical time, influenced by various historical graphics, including Arthur Scaife's 1895 vertical timeline patent and James C. Scott's insights from his book "Against the Grain."
Andrews sketches a timeline that integrates modern history, ancient myths, and deep human history, extending back over 60,000 years. This timeline visually represents significant milestones, including the Great Pyramid of Giza and the migration of modern humans out of Africa. He emphasizes the importance of understanding both long-term historical processes and specific events, acknowledging the inherent biases and uncertainties in historical representation.
Additionally, Andrews teases a forthcoming discovery of a monumental chronology created by a 19th-century British woman, promising to share more details in future editions. He invites readers to engage with his work and consider their own interpretations of history. Andrews also promotes his upcoming book, "Info We Trust," set for publication in fall 2024, and encourages support for his ad-free newsletter.
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