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1938 Baghdad clay jar sparked battery claims but evidence says otherwise

Science
Published on 5 May 2026
1938 Baghdad clay jar sparked battery claims but evidence says otherwise

It can generate electricity in tests, but history is missing

A clay pot found in 1938 near Baghdad, containing a copper cylinder and iron rod, ignited excitement about an “ancient battery.” Modern experiments show the setup can produce electricity, yet researchers say there’s no historical proof it was used for electrochemical power. The design may instead have been intended for a more ordinary storage or craft purpose.

  • A 1938 discovery near Baghdad fueled “ancient battery” theories
  • Experiments indicate the jar can produce electricity
  • No historical evidence confirms it was used electrochemically
  • Experts now favor a non-battery storage function
Read the full story at The Economic Times

This summarization was done by Beige for a story published on The Economic TimesThe Economic Times

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