Digging Up Armageddon: The Search for the Lost City of Solomon

James Henry Breasted sent a team of archaeologists to the Holy Land to excavate the ancient site of Megiddo in 1925, which the Bible says was fortified by King Solomon. Digging Up Armageddon brings to life one of the most important archaeological expeditions ever undertaken, describing the site and what was found there, including discoveries of gold and ivory, and providing an up-close look at the internal workings of a dig in the early years of biblical archaeology. Eric Cline draws on writings and correspondence to paint a compelling portrait of a bygone age of archaeology and the debates over what was uncovered at Megiddo.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 17 May 2022
Publisher: Princeton University Press

In 1925, renowned Egyptologist James Henry Breasted, director of the Oriental Institute at the University of Chicago, dispatched a team of archaeologists to the Holy Land to excavate the ancient site of Megiddo, known as Armageddon in the New Testament. The Bible recounts that King Solomon fortified this city. The team's excavations garnered global attention and shed light on one of the most legendary cities of biblical times. However, there has been limited written exploration of the behind-the-scenes events of this expedition.

Digging Up Armageddon vividly brings to life one of the most significant archaeological expeditions ever undertaken. It provides a detailed description of the site and the remarkable discoveries made there, including the uncovering of gold and ivory. The book also offers an intimate glimpse into the inner workings of a dig in the early years of biblical archaeology.

The Chicago team left behind a wealth of writings and correspondence spanning over three decades, encompassing letters, cablegrams, cards, notes, and diaries. Eric Cline, the author, has skillfully utilized these materials to create a captivating portrait of a bygone era of archaeology. He sets the expedition against the backdrop of the Great Depression in America and the escalating conflicts in British Mandate Palestine, providing readers with an insider's perspective on the debates surrounding the discoveries at Megiddo, the internal strife that plagued the expedition, and the groundbreaking discoveries that reshaped our understanding of the ancient world.

Digging Up Armageddon is an enthralling tale that explores the archaeological site during the interwar years and its pivotal role in history. It sheds light on the complexities and challenges faced by the expedition's participants, as well as the profound impact their discoveries had on the field of archaeology. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history, culture, and archaeology of the Middle East.

Weight: 404g
Dimension: 135 x 204 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691233932