Abstract This paper examines the history of archaeology, and the impact that social historians have had in shaping its direction and definition. In order to present his case, the author looks at three different books on archaeology, both ancient and modern, by social historians. The author points out the strengths and weaknesses of these publications, which in some cases, are long on speculation, and short on facts.
From the Paper "This is not to say the Patterson's book is completely skewed, however. He situates archaeology into a wider historical context and acknowledges the influence of outside society- that, archaeology as a field did not, in fact, 'pull itself up by its own bootstraps. As an example of this he sites the first impact of the WPA during the great depression, and the larger affect it had after World War II when the GI Bill allowed many soldiers who had previously worked with the WPA to pursue a full career in Archaeology. He also traces the class structure of archaeology from its beginning as an aristocratic and upper middle class phenomena to its situation in middle class academia in the 1950's. Finally, he follows the fields movement from private collectors, to universities, to Federal government, and its final gradual privatization under the expanding clauses of United States historic sites protection."
Abstract The paper introduces archaeology, and explains that the concept of dating is central to the science of archaeology. Two broad categories of dating, relative and absolute, are introduced, and four major specific types of dating are presented to the reader; stratigraphy, dendrochronology, obsidian hydration dating, and radiocarbon dating. Each of the four methods are discussed in great detail, each with a closing paragraph devoted to the underlying problems with that particular method. For example, the section on stratigraphy begins with a brief history of the method itself, and introduces such concepts as the law of superposition, temporal sequences of data within stratified deposits, context evaluation, and determining age through the relative position of superimposed artifacts. The negatives of stratigraphy are then discussed, and include deformation, overlapping and reverse stratigraphy, and the method is evaluated on the whole. This format is then applied to the other three types of dating discussed. Finally, a concluding paragraph states that although the four types of dating discussed are infinitely valuable to archaeologists all over the world, there are still problems associated with each that need to be accounted for when using them to address the age of fossilized remains and other artifacts.
From the Paper "Archaeology is the study of past human cultures, and archaeologists must uncover and interpret material remains in order to reconstruct past ways of life. To understand the purposes of these remains, Archaeologists have the task of constructing a chronology of prehistory, using various dating methods. ?Without knowing the age of materials, little can be said about the activity that made them part of the site (David L. Webster, Susan Toby Evans & William T. Sanders, 1993: 128).? Dating is defined as the placement in time of events relative to one another or to any established scale of temporal measurement (Jeffrey S. Dean, 1981: 375). Dating methods used by Archaeologist incorporate the scientific method and have the advantages of objectification, application to isolated cultural sequences, and an expanded span of human prehistory for which an absolute chronology can be built (Keith Brannigan, 1974: 100-101). Scientific methods of dating are invaluable for the prehistoric periods and have revolutionized the archaeologists? ideas about the absolute chronology of the prehistoric culture sequence (Brannigan, 1974: 101), yet each of these scientific methods has many difficulties. Dating techniques fall into two categories"relative and absolute"and include the following: seriation, ceramic dating, potassium argon dating, thermoluminescence dating, archaeomagnetic dating, fission track dating, stratigraphy, dendrochronology, obsidian hydration dating, and radiocarbon dating. This paper will discuss the latter four methods, with an emphasis on the shortcomings of each."
Abstract In "Dimensions of Imperial Control: The Vijayanagara Capital," Carla Sinopoli and Kathleen Morrison confront this difficulty in archaeological investigation, attempting a more cautious and evidence-based analysis of the sites of power in and around the capital city of the Vijayanagara empire. They begin their assessment, rightly, with a basic ideological assumption about the nature of archaeology of ancient empires: overarching models that describe imperial control and loci of power that are relatively useless.
From the Paper "Archaeology can be a frustrating discipline. The scholars who form the ranks of the world's archaeological institutions spend lifetimes sifting through scant clues to reconstruct the intimate details of civilizations long gone. Mistakes are easily made. Evidence is easily misinterpreted. It takes years of pointed training to develop the practical and intellectual skills to draw some meaningful conclusions regarding the characteristics of the ancient world. It's somewhat akin to trying to solve a murder mystery with only the briefest of clues that happened thousands of years prior. (In fact, Bob Brier--a famous Egyptologist--did just that, working to solve what he concluded was the murder of Tutankhamen)."
Abstract This paper examines current issues in archaeology, most specifically the problems in American curation. The author describes the emphasis archaeology places on excavation, yet cites the lack of resources allocated for maintaining artifacts. The author further highlights the problems with storage facilities, conservation of artifacts, and making finds available to the public. The paper concludes stating that the curation crisis is the product of poor planning, idealization of field work versus curation work, and a zealous but misguided approach to archeology as a whole
From the Paper "Entire collections of artifacts across the country are simply vanishing or being hidden away so deeply that they are forgotten about completely, not to mention being stored in substandard conditions that do not preserve them for posterity. Items such as soil samples and bits of charcoal offer a wealth of information, however because they do not have any commercial value on the antiquities market, they are treated as if they are in fact worthless. Unfortunately, archaeological sites are becoming more rare, and as the availability of new artifacts lessens, it becomes even more important to care for the artifacts that have already been unearthed and continue having them available for further research. ("A Curation Crisis") The San Diego Archeological Center defines curation as the care, management, and use of archeological collections. "Care means that you prevent deterioration, management means that collections are organized and accessible, and use means that you use collections for scientific research, public education or cultural use." (San Diego) Curation is a matter of respect for the cultures from which collections have been obtained, as well as respect for the educational value of these artifacts for today and tomorrow, not to mention respect for the amount of work and money that has been invested in these collections. However, this respect is not currently an inherent part of the archaeological or curation process, and while steps are being taken towards improving the current conditions, a new approach must be taken in order to prevent further deterioration of collections and eventually fix the problem."
Abstract This paper has two purposes, the first provides a collection of otherwise scattered archaeological resource material for secondary education providers and secondly, it considers wider issues inherent in the New South Wales history curricula. The first section of this paper contains archaeological resources for secondary education and includes material from North America, United Kingdom and Australia. While the survey is not definitive, it is designed to highlight current trends in printed matter, visual media and the internet as rapidly evolving resource theatres.
Secondly, the paper provides an overview of the relevant stages and structure of history as presented to Australian secondary students. Description, explanation and illustration of the 'continuum of learning' will assist those uninitiated in educational jargon, and hopefully provide an appreciation of the overall course content. Finally, the paper reviews archaeology as taught in Australian secondary schools.
Outline
Preface
Part 1 NSW Curriculum
1. Introduction
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Stages 1-3
1.2 Stages 4-5
1.3 Stage 6
1.4 Board of Studies Requirements
2. Ancient History Stage 6
2.1 Stage 6 History Course Structure
2.2 Stage 6 History Extension Course Structure
3. Review
3.1 Introduction
3.2 History Syllabus
3.3 Assessment and Examination
3.4 Teaching Archaeology 3.5 History and Archaeology 3.6 Recommendations
Part 2 Resources
1. North America
1.1 Print Resources
1.2 Internet Resources
1.3 CD-ROM
2. United Kingdom
2.1 Print resources
2.2 Internet Resources
2.3 CD-ROM
3. Australia
3.1 Print Resources
3.2 Internet Resources
3.3 CD-ROM
3.4 Video
3.5 HSC - Listed Texts
4. References
From the Paper "For those considering a teaching career, and possessing an archaeological background or skills, a great deal of scope exists within the syllabus for the inclusion of archaeology. A career in teaching HSIE will require a three years bachelor degree plus either a Diploma of Education (Secondary), or a four year Bachelor of Education, or a four/five year combined degree, such as Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Teaching (Secondary). Strictly speaking, archaeology is not included in the range of subjects taught in HSIE as listed by the NSW Teachers Association (2003). However, teachers are, 'encouraged to use their special interests and talents to contribute to a wide range of school activities'. Nevertheless, and whilst the course bears the title, Ancient History, a significant body of relevant information comes directly from an archaeological approach, and the archaeological record. "
An assessment of "An Epistemological Inquiry into Some Archaeological and Historical Interpretations of 17th Century Nation American-European Relations" by Michael S. Nassaney.
900 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 0 sources, 2006, $ 35.95
Abstract This paper assesses Michael S. Nassaney's article, "An Epistemological Inquiry into Some Archaeological and Historical Interpretations of 17th Century Nation American-European Relations" showing that objective interpretations are based on the current society. According to the paper, Nassaney's article discusses the archaeological records of the Narragansett Native American tribe. His thesis states "I will show that 'objective' interpretations of the archaeological record are ideologically charged while serving to empower those with access to the record".
Abstract This paper details the fascist regimes in Europe that used archeology as a means to justify and solidify the policies of political leaders and that the abuse of this science continues to this day. This paper centers on Germany's Nazi regime and their manipulation of past history in their rise to power. The research in this paper shows that the Nazis used archaeology not only to justify their claims of superiority but also for oppression and torture. The writer concludes that while archaeology explores the past it will always be subject to manipulation by political leaders who want to legitimize their nationalistic agendas.
From the Paper "The Nazis did not just use archaeology to justify their claims of superiority, they also used it to oppress and torture other people. They would go on to use pseudo-science to justify their morbid hatred for the Jews. "The Ahnenerbe had a special section known as the Institute for Scientific research for Military Purposes." (Epstein 31) This section carried out horrible experiments on live human prisoners from Dachau and other concentration camps. With these experiments, the Nazis invented anthropological evidence to suggest that it could be proven that Jews were an inferior race by measuring the size of their head. These beliefs combined with Hitler's call for Aryan pride roused a genocidal fury among Germans. For example, the administrator of the Ahnenerbe, Dr. Wolfram Sievers, became heavily involved in medical experiments on Jews who had been thrown in concentration camps. His tests were specifically meant to prove racial differences and the superiority of the Aryan race."
Abstract In this article, the writer describes the different modern technologies that are utilized by archaeologists. The writer discusses how such technologies affect the historical values of the artifacts discovered.
In this paper the writer determines the impact of the technologies on the future of archaeology. Further, the writer discusses the various advantages and disadvantages of modern technologies in the field of archaeology.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Background of the Study
Presentation
Excavation and Research
Restoration
Preservation
Discussion
Statement of the Problem
Significance of the Study
Objectives
Scope and Limitation
Participants
Research Design
Methodology and Research Instrument
Statistical Treatment
Data Presentation and Analysis
Conclusion
References
From the Paper "Archaeology is a difficult profession. Archaeologists must do constant and thorough research on the subject matter to ensure discovery of real artifacts. In this regard, modern archaeology is now utilizing different methods and strategies in excavation, research, restoration and preservation that are necessary for the development and improvement of archaeology. These methods also include the application of modern technologies such as computers, modern gadgets that are capable of enhancing imagery of the artifacts and equipment that are capable of capturing the uniqueness and richness of the archaeological artifacts discovered.
The future of archaeology will, in any manner possible, continue to be affected by the evolution of modern technologies. Their effects may either be positive or negative."
Abstract This paper discusses the benefits of archaeology to the scientific and academic communities, as well as its ability to question previous historical paradigms related to the earliest dates of settlement in a given region, or the evolution and migration of early hominids. The paper gives some examples of famous archaeological finds, discussing in particular, the Kennewick Man and the effects that its discovery has had on our previous knowledge of history.
From the Paper "The Kennewick Man is one of the most notable finds in recent archaeological history. Discovered in Washington State by casual passers-by in 1996, the Kennewick Man's remains epitomize the controversy over NAGPRA. At first believed to be the remains of a Caucasian male who might have looked "like Patrick Stewart," the Kennewick Man called into question the theory that the first inhabitants of North America were Mongoloid peoples who traversed the Bering Strait (Miller 1997). Since then, the Kennewick Man has also become a political prisoner, in the middle of the battle between repatriation and scientific enquiry."
Abstract This paper provides a brief discussion of Greek history and Cretan art. The paper examines the phenomenon of looters and theft from Greek archaeological sites. The on-going battle against looting and smuggling antiquities is described, including an overview of international laws.
From the Paper "Looters can be dated as far back as 134 B.C. when the Romans originally stole from the Greeks. Only during the last century did countries such as Greece become concerned about their cultures, since the high prices of the artifacts have lead to more of their treasures being stolen. In the 1960?s, the popularity of marble statues encouraged thieves to loot the Aegean Islands for statues produced by the Cycladic culture during the Bronze Age. The looters destroyed over 12,000 graves in the course of their thefts. While many of these statues are in private collections, few have been recovered by archaeologists."
Abstract This paper looks at specific fossil and archaeological evidence and specimens as possible sources for ancient Greek myths. It explores specific fossil bed sites and their relationship to the ancient world, as well as possible theories of how the ancients must have come across and created legends for various species of pre-historic creatures. The paper includes photographs.
From the Paper "The ancient scholar Pausanias described some of these bones as "enormous but apparently human" when he visited the sanctuary of Askiepios, a rich fossil bed. Many fossils were claimed by the ancients to be the bones of local heroes, since many of these heroes were said to be of extraordinary height and stature. When these bones were found, they would be reburied in a ceremonial fashion and placed inside large coffins. These sites were then lost to the local's knowledge; so later in time Greeks would dig up large coffins with bones in them and then reclaim to have found the buried remains of local heroes."
Abstract This paper examines the relationships between archaeologists and the descendants of those they study, particularly in the North American southwest desert. The paper specifically looks at the Anasazi and their Hopi and Zuni descendants and the differences between the archaeologists' interpretation of history and that of the native people. The paper also looks at the role of Pan-Indian identity and ethnicity.
Abstract This paper presents a detailed discussion about the forensic sciences when it comes to the process and philosophy regarding archaeology and crime scene investigations. The writer examines terms and processes to answer questions about criminal investigation from an archaeological point of view.
From the Paper "Turn on the television on any night around the nation and one can find a crime show. We are inundated with crime shows, real time shows and law and order shows. Each show has a victim, suspects, a search scene and then the trial all wrapped up in a neat little time frame. If we watch closely we often see elements of the forensic science in action but mostly its pan shots, evidence found and bagged then on to the next scene. In real life however the discovery and search of a crime scene is much more involved. There are laws that must be followed and procedures that are handled with care to insure the scene nor the evidence becomes tainted or destroyed."
Abstract There are many techniques for dating within the field of archaeology, one of these methods is the The K-Ar (Potassium-Argon) method which has been a vast success within the field of geology. This paper examines how it works and what methods are used to glean the date from archaeological artifacts and remains.
From the Paper "It is possible to date rocks with a low potassium content such as basalts in this way. Sadly the dates are not always secure due to the behaviour of the geochemicals of the parent and daughter elements as they are likely to being disturbed by geological events such as weathering or reheating that normally take place during the formation of a rock. Potassium argon dating allows scientists to date volcanic rocks between two billion and 100,000 years old."
Abstract This research examines archaeological evidence associated with the story of Noah's Ark told in Genesis. It explains how the Genesis story of Noah's Ark, which describes a great flood that destroys all life and civilization except for an extended family and the extended family of livestock in its care, is premised on the idea that the family patriarch, Noah, received instructions from God to build a gigantic boat, or ark. The paper looks at alternative version of the story and archaeological evidence of its occurrence through history.
From the Paper "Articulation of alternative visions of Noah in the modern period has occurred in a climate of contentiousness. That is because the absence of definitive archaeological confirmation of the ancient texts runs up against a widespread insistence in Judaeo-Christian culture on the historicity of the Noah story. The extent of contentiousness was manifest especially in 1997, when a credentialed Australian geologist, Ian Plimer, was ejected from a creationist lecture when ark explorer Allen Roberts refused to answer questions about geologic time. Plimer later sued Roberts for science fraud on the theory of "the dangers inherent in letting fundamentalists go unchallenged" (Scott 9). Plimer lost on the legal issue, which resulted in his bankruptcy, but won on substantive argument and PR grounds, reflected in a host of contributions to Plimer's legal fund."
