The Arctic Research Consortium of the U.S. (ARCUS) invites registration for the next Arctic Research Seminar f eaturing Kaare Sikuaq Erickson, Engagement Manager for UIC Science in Utqiaġvik, Alaska. Sikuaq's presentation, titled Ingenious Indigenous Technology and Inuit History, will be held via Zoo m on Thursday, 27 May 2021 at 9:00 a.m. AKDT (1:00 p.m. ED T).
Seminar Abstract: This presentation will provide an introduction to the history of human settlement in northern Alaska as represented in archaeological resources a nd Inuit oral histories. Following the historical introduction, Sikuaq will focus on one piece of ingenious technology developed exclusively in the Ar ctic thousands of years ago, the toggling harpoon head. To this day, the to ggling harpoon head is an extremely important piece of technology used by a ll Inuit hunters to retrieve large marine mammals (e.g. walrus, seals, whal es, etc.) that would otherwise sink to the bottom of the ocean. Utilizing m iniature fully-functional replica ivory harpoons and bananas (to replicate the marine mammal skin and blubber), Sikuaq will demonstrate how the harpoo n works and why it is so unique and effective. This activity has been devel oped at UIC Science and has been shared with dozens of classrooms across Al aska.
Registration is require d for this event. Instructions for accessing the webinar will be sent to registrants prior to the event.
To re
gister for the event, go to:
ARCUS Arctic Research Semina
r Series webpage