MAYAN ROPE MAKING. Recorded almost 50 years ago in the jungles of the Yucatan.
Channel: James Cunkle
Date: 04/12/2020

Our team recorded this video almost 50 years ago in the jungles of the Yucatan.  The Maya have used these rope making techniques for thousands of years to make everything from climbing gear to bridges and ropes to draw water up from the deep cenotes.

As a young anthropologist almost half a century ago, I had the privilege of living with the Maya in the jungles of the Yucatan.  They cooked on open fires on the ground; we slept in hammocks and walked to unexplored ancient ruins and cenotes.  The people were open and friendly and unspoiled by tourism.  They spoke Mayan; I spoke only English and Spanish.  I brought along a video/camera crew and we recorded many of the rural jungle Maya and their lifeways.  On the way, our team also explored the tiny village of Tinum.  We visited the baker, the tailor, the tortilla mill, and the chicken lady.  We went to baseball games, political meetings and christenings. The local witch cured my wife’s abdominal distress/dehydration with a magic mix of God knows what.  It worked immediately.  Our many challenges were overcome with the help and guidance of the local people.   It was a wonderful experience and I hope you enjoy the bits and pieces that I am able to share with you these many years later.
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Thanxs
James Cunkle