Fact Check: Aliens built the pyramids

The Claim: "Aliens Built the Pyramids"

The assertion that extraterrestrial beings were responsible for the construction of the Egyptian pyramids is a popular conspiracy theory that has circulated in various forms for decades. This claim suggests that the advanced engineering and architectural feats required to build these monumental structures could not have been accomplished by the ancient Egyptians alone. Instead, proponents argue that aliens provided the necessary technology and knowledge. This article will explore the evidence surrounding this claim, the responses from experts, and the broader context of the discussion.

What We Know

1. Historical Context: The Great Pyramid of Giza, built around 2580–2560 BCE, is one of the most iconic structures of ancient Egypt. Archaeological evidence indicates that it was constructed by a workforce of skilled laborers, not slaves, who were organized into teams and provided with food and shelter 410.

2. Archaeological Evidence: Numerous studies have documented the methods used by the ancient Egyptians to quarry, transport, and assemble the massive stones used in the pyramids. Tools such as copper chisels and wooden sledges were employed, and the organization of labor was sophisticated 48.

3. Debunking the Alien Theory: Experts in archaeology and Egyptology have consistently debunked the idea that aliens were involved in pyramid construction. For instance, an archaeologist from Arizona State University stated that such theories ignore substantial evidence and the scientific methods that explain how the pyramids were built 18.

4. Public Figures and the Theory: The theory gained renewed attention in 2020 when Elon Musk tweeted about the pyramids, suggesting they might have been built by aliens. This prompted a response from the Egyptian government, which invited Musk to visit and see the evidence of human ingenuity for himself 35.

5. Cultural Impact: The idea that aliens built the pyramids is often linked to broader themes in pseudoarchaeology, which can reflect cultural biases and a lack of understanding of ancient civilizations 27.

Analysis

The claim that aliens built the pyramids is largely rooted in speculative interpretations of history rather than empirical evidence.

• Source Reliability: The sources that support the alien theory often lack credibility. For example, articles from pseudoarchaeological perspectives do not adhere to rigorous scientific standards and frequently rely on anecdotal evidence or sensationalism 256. Conversely, sources that debunk the theory, such as those from reputable academic institutions and established media outlets, provide well-researched arguments backed by archaeological findings 1410.

• Methodological Concerns: The methodologies used by proponents of the alien theory often involve selective interpretation of archaeological data, such as the alignment of the pyramids with celestial bodies, which they argue indicates advanced knowledge that could only come from extraterrestrial sources 5. However, this interpretation overlooks the extensive knowledge of astronomy that ancient Egyptians possessed, which was well-documented.

• Potential Biases: Some proponents of the alien theory may have underlying biases that influence their interpretations, including a tendency to view ancient civilizations as incapable of achieving complex feats without external assistance. This perspective can be seen as dismissive of the capabilities and achievements of ancient peoples 27.

• Contradicting Evidence: Numerous archaeological discoveries, including workers' cemeteries and tools, have provided insight into the lives of the laborers who built the pyramids, further undermining the alien theory 410. These findings illustrate that the construction was a human endeavor, supported by a well-organized workforce.

Conclusion

Verdict: False

The claim that aliens built the pyramids is unsupported by credible evidence and is contradicted by extensive archaeological findings. Key evidence includes the historical context of pyramid construction, the documented methods used by ancient Egyptians, and the consistent debunking of the theory by experts in relevant fields. The assertion relies heavily on speculative interpretations and often disregards the capabilities of ancient civilizations.

While the popularity of this theory may reflect cultural biases and a fascination with the extraordinary, it is essential to recognize that the achievements of the ancient Egyptians were significant and well-documented. The evidence available overwhelmingly supports the conclusion that the pyramids were built by human hands, utilizing the knowledge and resources of the time.

It is important to acknowledge that while the current evidence strongly favors this conclusion, the study of history and archaeology is always evolving. New discoveries could provide additional insights, but as of now, the claim remains firmly in the realm of conspiracy theory. Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information and consider the sources from which it originates.

Sources

1. ASU archaeologist debunks alien influence, other conspiracy theories - ASU News. Retrieved from https://news.asu.edu/20190314-discoveries-asu-archaeologist-debunks-alien-influence-other-conspiracy-theories-archaeology
2. The Pyramid Conspiracy - Reed Magazine. Retrieved from https://www.reed.edu/reed-magazine/articles/2019/pseudo-archaeology-paideia.html
3. Egypt tells Elon Musk its pyramids were not built by aliens - BBC News. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-53627888
4. Were The Pyramids Built By Aliens? Facts That Debunk The Conspiracy - History Extra. Retrieved from https://www.historyextra.com/period/ancient-egypt/were-pyramids-built-by-aliens-conspiracy-real-history-facts/
5. Did Aliens Really Build the Pyramids? - The Archaeologist. Retrieved from https://www.thearchaeologist.org/blog/did-aliens-really-build-the-pyramids
6. Ancient Pyramids: Evidence of Alien Engineering? | ALIENS - YouTube. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNmr8fkDzDY
7. Did Aliens Build the Pyramids? - SAPIENS. Retrieved from https://www.sapiens.org/archaeology/pseudoarchaeology-racism/
8. Archaeologist debunks alien influence, other conspiracy theories - Phys.org. Retrieved from https://phys.org/news/2019-03-archaeologist-debunks-alien-conspiracy-theories.html
9. Scientists Are Investigating a Puzzling Underground 'Anomaly' Near the Great Pyramid - Smithsonian Magazine. Retrieved from https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/alongside-egypts-great-pyramid-archaeologists-find-unmarked-underground-structures-180984355/
10. 5 pyramid conspiracy theories debunked - Sky HISTORY. Retrieved from https://www.history.co.uk/articles/pyramid-conspiracy-theories-debunked