Caral Civilization, one of the five oldest civilizations in the world, was based on organized and complex societies that planned and scheduled what they had to do, which resulted in adequate living conditions, according to Ruth Shady, director at the Caral Archaeological Zone.
“The key for their good living is that there were organized and complex societies that planned and scheduled what they had to do, and shared the duties, thus making it possible to have adequate living conditions,” she said in an interview.
“That’s what we need to regain because the croplands that they managed to cultivate in the mountains to benefit from agricultural production have gradually disappeared,” the San Marcos University’s archaeologist added.
In contrast, she said, everything is very individualistic now, and most people think about their own benefit.
“Moreover, there is much inequality and discrimination in the population. Cultural identity has been lost, and most importantly, which is worse in my opinion, is the fact that we do not have a strong self-esteem,” the discoverer of Caral remarked.
She emphasized that Peru had a highly advanced knowledge in different fields of human activity and has been in very advanced development stages, which is currently admired by experts from around the world.
On the other hand, the archaeologist revealed what distinguishes Caral from the other four cradles of civilization in the world.
She explained that Caral was a civilization that developed in the Americas, establishing inter-cultural but peaceful relations.
“We have not found walled cities, as was the case in the Old World. We have not found weapons, either, or attempts to make weapons using metals,” Shady remarked.
She also noted that, since this civilization was formed, there was an interest in reciprocity and solidarity, as well as in exchanging and benefiting from such shared exchange.
Part of such legacy can be seen at the museum exhibition named “The Values of Caral Civilization – Reflections for Good Living,” which is the first exhibit conducted by the Caral Archeological Area after two years.