#Globalhistory

A new archaeological study has shaken up what we thought we knew about ancient Roman dining, revealing that the “fast food” culture of the empire went well beyond bread and olives. Recent excavations in Spain have shown that ordinary Romans, not just the elite, frequently enjoyed fried songbirds—especially thrushes—at bustling roadside eateries, according to a study in the International Journal of Osteoarchaeology (The Independent).

The finding comes from a detailed analysis of ancient animal bones excavated from a cesspit in the city of Pollentia on Mallorca, dating to the period spanning the first century BC to the first century AD. Archaeologists uncovered the remains of mammals, fish, reptiles, and, most notably, a significant number of small thrush bones discarded at the site of a commercial district. These culinary scraps provide a surprisingly intimate glimpse into the eating habits of Roman commoners and challenge the notion that such delicacies were reserved solely for the wealthy.

Archaeologists have unveiled a major historical find in north Mississippi: the remains of a kiln believed to be over 100 years old, potentially dating back to the post-Civil War era and possibly used by freed slaves. The excavation, conducted by a team from Chronicle Heritage during a land survey for infrastructure development, promises to add a vital chapter to the understanding of African American life and labor in the region during the late 19th century (The Commercial Appeal).