description Hiram Bingham Overview
Hiram Bingham III was an American historian, explorer, and politician associated with Yale University. In 1911, an expedition he led brought international attention to Machu Picchu, an Inca site already known to local residents in Peru, and his team subsequently documented and excavated parts of it. Bingham later entered politics, serving briefly as governor of Connecticut and then as a United States senator from the state.
help Hiram Bingham FAQ
Did Hiram Bingham actually discover Machu Picchu?
Hiram Bingham did not discover Machu Picchu, as the Inca site was already known to local Peruvian residents. However, his 1911 expedition brought the site to international attention and initiated its scientific documentation.
What university was Hiram Bingham affiliated with?
Bingham was an American historian and explorer affiliated with Yale University. It was through Yale that he organized and funded the expeditions that excavated the Machu Picchu site.
Did Hiram Bingham have a career outside of archaeology?
Yes, Bingham had a notable political career serving as the Governor of Connecticut and later as a United States Senator. He transitioned from an academic explorer into a prominent politician.
What artifacts did Hiram Bingham take from Peru?
During his subsequent expeditions, his team excavated and brought back thousands of artifacts to Yale University's Peabody Museum. This collection sparked a long-standing dispute between the university and the Peruvian government regarding ownership.
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