Give me a lever and a fulcrum on which to place it and I shall move the world -- Archimedes

3/9/2021


 Moving large objects, such as stone and marble blocks by hand is an ancient mechanical art form. There is a direct connection between the size of an object, its mass and gravity. A large object resting on the earth, connected to it by the forces of gravity, makes these stones extremely difficult to maneuver.

If, with some mechanical advantage, one can lift the stone, even a crack, they can break the seal that holds these stones together to the earth. The easiest way to accomplish this is with a long steel bar and a fulcrum made of wood blocks, usually pieces of 4 inch x 4 inch lumber. The longer the lever the greater the lifting action. Add a second man with a bar and two men can lift great weights.

Once up, the mass is no longer trapped against the earth. It becomes much easier to maneuver. Place a couple of blocks under the stone and it rests in the air easier to get under it and easier to move. Place a few rollers made out of PVC pipes under the stone and one man can push the stone down the road with little effort.

All the talk of aliens building ancient structures deprives man of his thoughtful accomplishments and hard work. A team of smart, strong people with the right simple tools can do amazing feats. In many cases these undertakings were massive annual communal rituals, that lasted for centuries. and ended up creating some of the world’s most spectacular structures, such as Machu Picchu, Angkor Wat, pyramids and cathedrals

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