Who were the first people in recorded history? - Video Insight
Who were the first people in recorded history? - Video Insight
Stefan Milo
Fullscreen


The video investigates the origins of writing, emphasizing early recorded identities and names like Kushim and Neithhotep to ponder human memory and immortality.

The video explores the origins of writing and its significance in preserving human history. Focusing on the dawn of written records, it investigates how individuals and their identities were documented, allowing us to understand the lives of early humans. The discussion reveals that names like Kushim, the temple administrator from Uruk, and others from early Egyptian history, offer glimpses into the past, shedding light on their societal roles and culture. Furthermore, it raises philosophical questions about mortality and memory, contemplating how the written word has contributed to a form of immortality, allowing names and accomplishments to resonate through the ages despite the impermanence of human existence.


Content rate: B

The content is well-researched and presents a thoughtful analysis of early historical identities and writing. However, it leans on some speculative interpretations and lacks comprehensive evidence for all claims, preventing a higher rating.

history writing archaeology immortality identity

Claims:

Claim: Kushim was the first recorded individual in Mesopotamia.

Evidence: Kushim is mentioned in multiple ancient cuneiform tablets, primarily related to barley distribution, suggesting his significance.

Counter evidence: The dating of the tablets is imprecise and based on flawed archaeological methods, raising questions about the certainty of Kushim's identity as the first recorded individual.

Claim rating: 8 / 10

Claim: Iry-Hor is potentially the earliest identifiable king of Egypt.

Evidence: Iry-Hor's name has been found in archaeological context indicating his social status, alongside inscriptions affirming significant administrative activities.

Counter evidence: Debate exists over whether Iry-Hor was a king, as his name lacks the formal cartouche typical of recognized royals, questioning his status.

Claim rating: 7 / 10

Claim: Neithhotep was the first woman in recorded history.

Evidence: Neithhotep's name appears on ancient artifacts linking her to early Egyptian rulers, suggesting her prominence.

Counter evidence: While Neithhotep's significant burial site indicates her importance, the historical context is ambiguous, leaving room for interpretation.

Claim rating: 6 / 10

Model version: 0.25 ,chatGPT:gpt-4o-mini-2024-07-18