News and Events

BU expert uncovering the truth about UK’s largest archaeological hoax

19 December 2012

December marks the 100 year anniversary of the Piltdown Man’s discovery; a key moment in British archaeology history.

Bournemouth University senior lecturer in archaeology Dr Miles Russell, has been invited to give his thoughts to the media on arguably the UK’s largest archaeological hoax.

So far, Miles, an expert on the Piltdown discovery, has been invited to speak on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme along with Making History. Several local BBC stations, including BBC Radio Solent and BBC Radio Sussex have also spoken to Miles, as he has given his theory on the hoax and who was behind it.

Speaking to Making History, Miles said, "Most people like conspiracy theories and with Piltdown it is possible to construct multiple theories based on theories at the time."

On the Today programme, speaking to Evan Davis, Miles said, "It was exactly the sort of find that people wanted for the time. In 1912 the find was saying that the cradle of humanity was the home counties of England."

Miles Russell has written a book on the subject, called ‘The Piltdown Man: Case Closed’ where he helps to uncover the mystery of the Piltdown Man and finger the culprit behind the hoax.

Miles spoke at a National Geological Society event on 18 December, 100 years to the day since the first announcement. The event was chaired by Sir David Attenborough and Miles gave his thoughts on the subject.