Archaeology

Archaeology is the study of the history of humans through found artifacts in burial sites or other ancient landmarks. Its role in anthropology is to study and understand past humans to better understand late and current trends of humans. Its main goal is to gather information and conduct research, while preserving the ancient landmark. With this information, anthropologists and archaeologists alike can paint an accurate picture of early life among humans. Some archaeologists acquire information without directly touching physical objects. This practice is called participant observation, where archaeologists can learn from an unfamiliar place or group of people by logging their observed characteristics and lifestyles. These archaeologists learn and observe by immersing themselves within a culture with respect, and the intention to learn without interference. 

Methods: Cultural and Archaeological

 An archaeologist (Stuart Butler) introducing himself to some citizens of Maasai. “2015 06 24 Walking with the Maasai JPEG RESIZED 0025” by Make It Kenya Photo/Stuart Price/flickr, Public Domain) 
 

Clothing worn by past humans has been a difficult subject to study. Since fabrics usually do not hold up against the test of time and climate, very few intact remains of articles of clothing have been found. In the article "My Search for the Origins of Clothing" by Ian Gilligan, the author goes on an expedition to Siberia to better understand the apparel worn by past humans of the area. As mentioned previously, fabrics are very rare to be discovered, so archaeologists use other clues to better their understanding of early humans. Such clues include tools such as sewing needles and blades to manipulate the toughness of animal hides to make garments that can protect the skin from harsh weather conditions. As their technology progressed, clothing items were able to become a symbol of culture instead of just practicality. Studying a certain climate and tools found in a region have been able to aid archaeologists in their understanding of past humans. 

My Search for the Origins of Clothing by Ian Gilligan

A sewing needle found in present-day France. Didier Descouens/Muséum de Toulouse/Wikimedia Commons

Archaeology is used to find ancient artifacts that are then used to better understand early humans. Underneath the Bath Abbey, a historical landmark in England, tools such as blades and spears were discovered that dated back to the Mesolithic era. Archaeologists were able to divide the ground into squares to excavate further artifacts. The artifacts then go through a tedious cleaning and sorting process. Organic matter such as charcoal and animal remains were also sorted that have information to the diet of the early humans living in that area. The remains left by the Mesolithic humans gave evidence that they moved often and settled near water sources where natural resources were abundant. The information gathered was then used to compare between other groups living in the surrounding areas and gave a better understanding of the Mesolithic people as a whole. 

Bath Abbey: Mesolithic archaeological finds

Archaeological finds including flint used in tools found under the Bath Abbey. 

The Native Spirit Museum and Gallery is located in St. Andrews. Although it is catered more toward the selling of native american artifacts, it is still a resource for the viewing of archaeological finds from native americans. It is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm and is free to enter. The museum and gallery contains native american tools and weapons, animal remains, and art inspired by native american traditions and culture. 

Native Spirit Museum and Gallery