Draft:Milo Rossi

Born and raised outside Boston,^[5] Rossi developed a passion for archaeology early on through reading National Geographic and library books. He enrolled at the University of Maine in 2018, majoring in environmental science with a strong interest in anthropology.^[7][2][5] After an introductory archaeology course taught by Dr. Daniel Sandweiss, he added archaeology to his academic pursuits and graduated with a combined focus in environmental science and anthropology in 2022.^[5][8]

Rossi began creating content related to archaeology and history on TikTok in 2021 while studying at the University of Maine. His videos, which often use humor and satire,^[9] focus on debunking pseudoscientific theories, fringe archaeology, and conspiracy claims about ancient civilizations. Building on his success on TikTok, Rossi launched the Miniminuteman YouTube channel after his friend recommended trying it. He now produces longer-form videos that combine commentary, on-site travel segments, and interviews with experts.^[10]

Rossi’s content frequently addresses topics such as ancient monuments,^[11] human prehistory, and misrepresentations of indigenous cultures.^[12][13][14] He is known for critiquing popular pseudoarchaeological figures and television programs, including Graham Hancock’s Ancient Apocalypse and Ancient Aliens.^[15][3] Milo also hosts a series on his channel titled Awful Archaeology where he debunks various pseudoarchaeological theories and misconceptions. While praised for raising public interest in archaeology and critical thinking, some archaeologists have criticized factual inaccuracies and concerns over handling artifacts in his videos, emphasizing adherence to professional practices.^[15]

In addition to his online presence, Rossi has given public lectures on the role of social media in combating archaeological misinformation.^[16] He was invited to speak at the University of Maine, his alma mater, and at professional archaeology conferences, where he discusses strategies for public outreach and science communication.^[10]

Rossi has written a book titled The Encyclopedia of the Weird and Wonderful^[17] published on October 3rd 2023, where he presents various tales through human history.^[18][4]

Together with his Miniminuteman community of "Googledebunkers," Milo has collectively fundraised more than $80,000 for disaster relief efforts worldwide and environmental non-profits, completed thousands of miles documenting the world, and raised awareness about the ongoing environmental crisis, the importance of critical thinking, and threats of pseudoscience.^[3]

• Graham Hancock
• Pseudoarchaeology
• Science communication