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Dimitris Xygalatas, Associate Professor of Anthropology and Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut

HISTORICAL FACTS: Burning man highlights the primordial human need for ritual | History Defined

A wooden effigy of a man is erected each year in Nevada's Black Rock Desert and later burned down. AP Photo/Ron Lewis

At the end of each summer, hordes of people flock to the Black Rock Desert in Nevada to erect a makeshift city the size of the Italian town of Pisa. They call it Black Rock City. A few days later, they will burn it to the ground, leaving no trace.

During their time together, they partake in an extravaganza of unique experiences. Wearing wild costumes and riding carnivalesque vehicles, they attend colorful parades, spectacular light displays and interactive art installations.

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