A Tale of Two Volcanoes: Santorini and Aniakchak - Historical Impacts and Controversies

Explore a captivating lecture on the historical and scientific significance of two major volcanic eruptions: Santorini in Greece and Aniakchak in Alaska. Delve into the controversies surrounding their dating, impact on ancient civilizations, and the methodologies used to study them. Discover how the Aniakchak eruption in 1628/27 BC provided precise dates for Babylonian chronology, while the exact timing of the Santorini eruption remains a mystery. Examine the potential connection between the Santorini eruption and the Egyptian 'Tempest Stele', challenging traditional interpretations and proposing a new understanding of its historical context. Learn about the preservation of Minoan art, the effects of volcanic activity on climate and society, and the interdisciplinary approaches used to unravel these ancient mysteries.