After5Houston - What Did We Get Wrong About the Amazon?
About this Event
A Conversation on Archaeology, Indigenous Innovation, and the Amazon
Join archaeologist, anthropologist, and museum curator Dirk Van Tuerenhout for What Did We Get Wrong About the Amazon?, an engaging exploration of the ancient societies that lived and thrived across the South American rainforest long before European contact. Together, we'll challenge common assumptions about the Amazon and uncover how Indigenous communities built large, stable settlements, developed sophisticated systems of land management, and transformed the environments around them.
What We'll Cover:
• What ancient Amazonian societies looked like - Explore how Indigenous communities organized their settlements and supported large populations within one of the world's most challenging environments.
• How they shaped the rainforest - Discover the knowledge, ingenuity, and land management practices that allowed these communities to live sustainably while dramatically shaping the landscapes around them.
• What archaeology reveals - Learn how archaeologists piece together the story of these societies thousands of years later and what their innovations can teach us about humanity's relationship with the environment.
Whether you're fascinated by archaeology, anthropology, Indigenous history, or simply curious about what the Amazon was really like before European contact, you'll leave with a deeper understanding of the people and innovations that shaped one of the world's most misunderstood environments.
Don't miss this chance to connect with your After5Society.
About The Speaker:
Dirk Van Tuerenhout is an archaeologist and anthropologist who has served as Curator of Anthropology at the Houston Museum of Natural Science for 28 years. Originally from Belgium, he has dedicated much of his career to helping audiences explore the history and cultures of the Americas. Dirk has curated exhibitions including Lucy's Legacy and Maya2012 and currently serves as the museum's Director of Collections. He is also part of the team working on NAGPRA and helps maintain the museum's Hall of the Americas.
Good to know before you come:
• Exact bar location will be disclosed in your confirmation email
• Arrive early to grab a drink and get settled
• The speaker portion lasts 1 hour, with optional time to stay and socialize afterward
• This is a participatory event
• Seating is limited to keep the experience intimate
Agenda
🕑: 06:00 PM - 06:30 PM
Doors Open & Drinks Flow
Info: Arrive early to grab a drink, settle in, and enjoy the atmosphere. Early birds get the best seats and a head start on mingling!
🕑: 06:30 PM - 07:30 PM
Guided Experience / Talk
Info: Dive into an engaging, interactive session with our speaker. Participate, observe, or simply soak it all in - it's your experience to enjoy.
🕑: 07:30 PM - 08:00 PM
Social Time & Connection
Info: Stick around to chat with fellow attendees, swap ideas, or just relax with a drink. Great conversations often happen after the main event!
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 29.99
