What’s New?

An extraordinary archaeological discovery was made as a 500-year-old firearm was unearthed near the US-Mexico border in Nogales, Arizona. This find, detailed in the International Journal of Historical Archaeology, offers a unique glimpse into the early exploration era when Spanish explorers ventured into North America.

Why It Matters

This artifact not only fascinates those interested in history but also has the potential to bridge historical knowledge gaps about the Spanish expeditions in North America. The discovery emphasizes shared cultural histories and pioneering technological advancements, highlighting influences that shaped current societies.

Details of the Discovery

Led by archaeologist Deni Seymour, the team unearthed a 40-pound, 3.5-foot-long bronze firearm referred to as a “wall gun.” It’s believed this weapon was created in the early 1500s and brought over during Spanish expeditions. The artifact offers insights into technologies of the time, presuming its first-hand use despite finding no evidence of gunpowder firing.

A Broader Context

This cannon, among the earliest portable firearms, suggests the demanding nature and advancements of military technologies during the Spanish colonial expeditions. Seymour’s research emphasizes the importance of understanding historical artifacts as connectors to the past, revealing lost narratives and informing us about early historic expeditions in sparsely documented regions.

Ongoing Studies

The findings have encouraged further archaeological explorations, aimed at uncovering more artifacts that were potentially used during Spanish incursion pathways. Each discovery potentially crafts a new chapter, enriching our cultural and historical narratives of the region.

Seymour’s continuing efforts ensure a deeper understanding of our shared historical treasures, looking to unravel yet more surprises beneath Arizona’s storied landscapes.

This story was first published on jpost.com.