I think this somewhat breathless report fails to mention that oil is abundant in the Veracruz region and tar/asphaltum very likely occurred there naturally. I’m wondering which occurred first: the Olmec use of natural tar for boats, etc., or similar use by the Chumash Indians of California’s Central Coast. The Chumash were reportedly using natural tar from the Santa Barbara region on their boats and wicker baskets more than 5,000 years ago.
speaking of the Chumash...
Sharks and the Chumash:
Santa Barbara’s First People Relied Heavily on Our Finned Friends
Independent | Thursday, August 14, 2008 | Matt Kettmann
Posted on 08/17/2008 3:00:35 PM PDT by SunkenCiv
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-chat/2063428/posts