NOVA Online | Mystery of the First Americans

Welcome to the companion Web site to "Mystery of the First Americans," originally broadcast on February 15, 2000. The film documents the discovery and ensuing controversy over the Kennewick Man, a well-preserved, 9,000-year-old human skeleton found in Washington State in 1996. Here's what you'll find online:

Does Race Exist?
Anthropologists George Gill of the University of Wyoming and Loring Brace of the University of Michigan square off on the issue. After reading their opposing viewpoints, decide for yourself.

Meet Kennewick Man (QTVR)
Archeologist Jim Chatters, the only scientist able to study the bones before federal authorities impounded them, tells how he put a face to Kennewick Man. Includes a striking QuickTime VR of the ancient man's reconstructed head.

Claims for the Remains
Eight scientists have filed suit against the U.S. government for the right to study the Kennewick Man remains. Here, all eight speak out about why they feel they should be allowed to do so and what they hope to learn if they get the chance.

The Dating Game (Hot Science)
Scientists have long relied on carbon-14 analysis to determine the age of organic remains such as ancient seeds, bits of charcoal, even human remains. In this feature, learn how this widely used process works.

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