How Mankind Has Observed Eclipses Throughout History

Mans observation of a solar or lunar eclipse throughout history went from mysterious to a predictable event. Written records of eclipses started 4,500 years ago when the Egyptians believed they were associated to mythical Gods. About 4000 years ago Chinese first thought dragons were eating the sun while lunar eclipses turns the moon red making them believe it was demonic or angry gods. They made loud noise and beat drums to scare the dragon away. By 206 CE Chinese astronomer accurately recorded lunar and solar eclipses. Stonehenge has holes that correlate with eclipses.I found some more information here. Mankind evolved and eclipses were attributed to the outcome of wars and people dying. In 1851 the first photograph was made of the solar corona was visible. Helium was discovered during a total solar eclipse in India in 1868 by a French astronomer. The total solar eclipse of May 29, 1919 confirmed Einstein’s work of general relativity. Totality viewing of the eclipse from boats at sea began in 1972. Today similar ancient rituals are followed such as making noise or praying. Animals get agitated, birds fly in confusion, hen’s roost during a solar eclipse. Our understanding has evolved throughout history but observing an eclipse still amazes mankind.