Daniel Richard Thomas

Daniel Richard Thomas, an esteemed historian and anthropology professor at Cambridge University, has earned a reputation as a modern-day Sherlock Holmes for his uncanny ability to unravel the mysteries of ancient civilizations and cultural phenomena.

Daniel remarks: One of the most rewarding aspects of writing my latest book, Threads of Time: Unraveling the Secrets of Ancient Textiles, is discovering how weaving together insights from various fields can shed light on human history in novel ways. It's essential to combine cutting-edge scientific methods with firsthand experiences to offer a richer understanding of our past.

I've gained much of this firsthand experience through a variety of unconventional paths: excavating prehistoric sites in the lush valleys of Peru, conducting ethnographic studies among nomadic tribes in the Sahara Desert, transitioning from an amateur archaeologist to a professional researcher, and even working as a consultant for historical documentaries filmed in the heart of London. (It was during one of these projects that I met my partner—history brought us together!) My academic background is in anthropology, which allows me to approach historical inquiries with a broad perspective that encompasses social, cultural, and biological dimensions. Currently, I'm based in the Department of Archaeology at Cambridge University, where I focus on research and authorship. I am also a member of the Royal Anthropological Institute and have served as a board member of the World Archaeological Congress. My work has been featured in diverse media, from BBC History Magazine to the Journal of Anthropological Research.

Threads of Time explores the significance of textiles in ancient societies. My upcoming project will delve into the digital age's impact on preserving and interpreting ancient artifacts—Digitizing Antiquity. If you're interested in learning more about when Digitizing Antiquity will be available or if you have a fascinating story related to the preservation of antiquities, feel free to drop me a line.