Alfonso Caso: Google Doodle Marks 128th Anniversary of Mexican Archaeologist

Today, Google Doodles pays homage to Alfonso Caso y Andrade, an iconic figure in Mexican archaeology, marking his 128th birthday. Born on this day in 1896 in Mexico City, Caso's profound contributions to pre-Columbian studies have left an indelible mark on our understanding of Mexico's ancient civilizations and their cultural roots.

Caso's academic journey began at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (NAUM), where he initially pursued a law degree. However, his passion for Mexico's rich history led him to co-found the "Society for Conferences and Concerts," promoting cultural engagement among students. This early inclination towards culture and history would shape his future path.

Despite his legal studies, Caso's fascination with Mexico's past, particularly the pre-Columbian archaeological sites like Xochicalco, steered him towards a career in archaeology. After obtaining a master's degree in Philosophy, Caso fully embraced archaeology, quickly becoming a respected figure at NAUM and later the head of its archaeology department and museum director.

Caso's archaeological endeavors took him across Mexico, unearthing the mysteries of ancient civilizations such as the Zapotecs at Monte Albán. His work at the iconic Tomb Seven, known for its rich burial offerings, helped establish a chronological history of Monte Albán dating back to the eighth century. His pioneering efforts didn't stop there; Caso made groundbreaking discoveries about the Mixtecs, deciphering their writings and significantly advancing our understanding of this indigenous group.

His interdisciplinary approach, combining linguistics, ethnography, history, and demography, challenged existing theories and proposed that Mesoamerican civilizations developed through internal evolution rather than external influences. Caso's work at Monte Albán and his discoveries in the Mixteca region, including sites like Yucuita and Monte Negro, are among his most notable achievements.

Caso was also a prolific writer, contributing extensively to the literature on native Mesoamerican cultures. He was among the first to recognize the Olmecs as the earliest Mesoamerican civilization, proposing their role as the "cultura madre" or Mother Culture of Mesoamerica. His theories on the Zapotecs and their dominance, once controversial, gained validation from subsequent studies, highlighting his foresight and impact on archaeology.

Throughout his career, Caso served as the Director of the National Institute for Indian Affairs, was a member of the United States National Academy of Sciences, and the American Philosophy Society. His dedication to archaeology and education has inspired countless students and researchers, cementing his legacy as a foundational figure in the study of Mexico's ancient cultures.

As we celebrate Alfonso Caso's 128th birthday, we honor a man whose life's work has deepened our connection to Mexico's ancient past, providing invaluable insights into the rich tapestry of Mesoamerican civilization. Happy Birthday, Alfonso Caso - your contributions continue to inspire and enlighten the world.