We're Not The First

 by Thomas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bk1EIENW7c0

1 hour 10 minute mark

tell me about this old little paperback book called "We're Not The First" by Thomas.

ChatGPT said:

ChatGPT

We’re Not the First: Riddles of Ancient Science is a 1971 book by Andrew Tomas (sometimes spelled “Thomas” in translations), an author who was known for his interest in ancient civilizations, unexplained mysteries, and speculative history. In this book, Tomas explores the idea that advanced civilizations existed long before recorded history and that humanity is not the first technologically advanced civilization on Earth.

Overview of Key Themes

Tomas delves into various ancient artifacts, structures, and records, arguing that they provide evidence of lost advanced civilizations. He suggests that ancient peoples had access to scientific knowledge or technology that modern society generally attributes to more recent history. His approach is speculative and often strays from mainstream archaeology and historical scholarship, appealing to readers interested in fringe theories and alternative history.

Topics and Theories

Ancient Knowledge and Technology: Tomas discusses examples of ancient achievements—such as the construction of the pyramids, precise astronomical observations, and complex engineering feats—that he claims suggest knowledge of science and technology beyond what mainstream history acknowledges.

Artifacts and Anomalies: He points to objects like the Antikythera mechanism, a complex ancient Greek device for calculating astronomical positions, as evidence of advanced knowledge. He also references “out-of-place artifacts” (OOPArts), items that appear anachronistically sophisticated for their time, to support his argument.

Cultural and Religious Myths: Tomas interprets myths and religious texts, such as the Hindu Mahabharata and Sumerian stories, as possible accounts of lost science or advanced technology. For example, he speculates about nuclear technology in ancient India based on descriptions of weapons in the Mahabharata.

Possible Influence of Extraterrestrials: Though Tomas is not as direct in this aspect as some of his contemporaries, he does entertain the idea that ancient knowledge could have been influenced by extraterrestrial visitors.

Influence and Reception

We’re Not the First gained popularity within the genre of “alternative history” and speculative archaeology, alongside works by authors like Erich von Däniken and Charles Hapgood. However, mainstream historians and archaeologists have largely dismissed Tomas’s conclusions, arguing that his interpretations lack credible evidence and are based on selective and speculative readings of ancient sources. Nonetheless, his work has retained a following among readers intrigued by unsolved mysteries, ancient technology, and the notion that history may be more complex than traditional narratives suggest.

Legacy

While Tomas’s ideas are controversial, We’re Not the First contributed to a broader interest in alternative archaeology and the notion of "lost civilizations." This genre has since developed a wide-ranging legacy, influencing everything from popular documentaries to conspiracy theories.