American Digger

American Digger is a captivating reality television show aired on Spike TV in 2011 that takes viewers on a thrilling journey into the world of relic hunting.American Digger is centered around the activities of former professional wrestler turned modern-day relic hunter Ric Savage and his team. This unique ensemble of experts embark on cross-country expeditions, seeking out valuable and historically significant artifacts buried deep within the soil.

Ric Savage, popularly known as "The Savage," is the main protagonist of the show and the heart of the team. The ex-wrestler turned archaeologist, brings a unique flare to the world of relic hunting, making each expedition a roller-coaster adventure for the viewers. He uses his charm and negotiation skills to secure the necessary permissions from landowners to dig on their properties. But Savage is not just a charming frontman; he possesses a deep appreciation and understanding of American history, which are vital traits in this line of work.

The premise of the show is quite simple yet intriguing. Ric and his dedicated team of relic hunters - his wife Rita, who handles the business side of their operation, their son G, a brilliant artifact restoration expert, Bob Buttafuso, known as "Bob the digger," a skilled excavator, and Rue Shumate, an artifacts historian, travel around the United States, mostly to historical sites. They dig up the properties in search for valuable relics from the past. Prior to each dig, Ric masterfully negotiates deals with the property owners, securing permissions for the excavation. After each successful hunt, the artifacts are then cleaned, identified, and appraised, before eventually being sold to collectors or museums.

Each episode immerses the viewers into the unfolding drama of the search and negotiation process, the excitement of the hunt, and the suspenseful moment when the buried treasures are finally unearthed. The appeal of American Digger is the combination of the thrill of the hunt with the unraveling mysteries of these historical artifacts, offering viewers a unique and exciting look into America's past.

But American Digger isn't just about the digs. It emphasizes the importance of history preservation and the value of these unearthed artifacts. Appreciating their historical significance, the artifacts are handled with the utmost care and respect. The show provides educational value as well, especially during the identification and appraisal process where viewers learn about the individual historical period each artifact is associated with.

Furthermore, the show is not without its fair share of criticism. It has drawn controversy from archaeologists and preservationists who argue that the practice of relic hunting for profit can lead to the destruction of archaeological sites and loss of historical context. But Savage assures viewers that they always strive to dig ethically, respect the grounds they are working on, and ensure the historic recognition and accurate representation of the artifacts they uncover.

American Digger showcases the thrill of unearthing America's buried history and the drama involved in the pursuit of these hidden treasures. It provides an engaging look into the science, the artistry, and the intrigue behind relic hunting, thus making it an appealing watch for history buffs and fans of adventure reality shows alike. Filled with suspense, historical knowledge, and lively characters, it offers a unique perspective on the past, making each lost artifact a portal to a bygone era. It's a gripping exploration of a rarely seen side of American history, hidden beneath the surface, waiting to be discovered. The detailed representation of relic hunting makes the series a captivating treat for those who appreciate history and the pursuit of the unknown.

In conclusion, American Digger is a dynamic exploration of America's buried past, its people, and its artifacts. It combines the thrill of treasure hunting, the intricacies of historical study, and the dramatic reality of negotiating business deals to create a riveting and entertaining show. Viewers are invited to journey alongside Ric Savage and his team as they engage in this exciting treasure hunt spanning across the diverse landscape of America.