Name:   MAJ USA RET - Subject:   Measured and Proxy Date:   7/15/2019 4:56:31 PM

The (mercury) thermometer did not come about until the early 18^th Century (Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit). Thermometers, microscopes, telescopes, barometers, and anemometers were not only the tools of scientists… but, also the hobby instruments of rich amateurs… who rigorously and wondrously recorded their observations (e.g. Gustav Spörer, 1672-1699 et al).

Prior to the development of the thermometer, where a reliable number could be observed and recorded, we have to rely on “proxy measurements.” Proxies are (paleo- and prehistoric) temperatures deduced from examination and/or analysis of ice cores, tree rings, soil and rock borings, and other substances. Proxy temperature deductions are compared to a control study and must be corroborated by other spatial, spectral, radiological, and chemical samples and standards. Proxies are subject to a somewhat wider degree of uncertainty, but not so much so that we cannot extrapolate proxies and other evidence to paleo- prehistoric climates.

Anthropologist can easily describe the environments of our descendents and construe the climates with which they dealt.