Archaeology: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Letter of Intent
A letter of intent addressed to each graduate school you apply to is your opportunity to show your strengths and that you recognize your weaknesses.
A letter of intent addressed to each graduate school you apply to is your opportunity to show your strengths and that you recognize your weaknesses.
A Walking Tour of Machu Picchu
The residential palace of the Inca king Pachacuti has drawn tourists from all over the world because of its lovely impossible location at the edge of the world. Gina Carey was at Machu Picchu during the Summer of 2004, and shares her photographs with us.
The residential palace of the Inca king Pachacuti has drawn tourists from all over the world because of its lovely impossible location at the edge of the world. Gina Carey was at Machu Picchu during the Summer of 2004, and shares her photographs with us.
The Sphinx, Old Kingdom, Egypt
The Sphinx, Old Kingdom, Egypt
The Sphinx, Old Kingdom, Egypt
Terracotta Army
The exquisite terracotta army of the first Qin Dynasty ruler Shihuangdi represents the emperor’s ability to control the resources of the newly unified China, and his attempt to recreate and maintain that empire in the afterlife.
The exquisite terracotta army of the first Qin Dynasty ruler Shihuangdi represents the emperor’s ability to control the resources of the newly unified China, and his attempt to recreate and maintain that empire in the afterlife.
Research Paper Topics
If your archaeology or anthropology professor has assigned you a research paper to write on any archaeological culture or site, how do you pick one? Luckily, there are several ways, located right here.
If your archaeology or anthropology professor has assigned you a research paper to write on any archaeological culture or site, how do you pick one? Luckily, there are several ways, located right here.
Who Were the Aryans?
The Aryan Invasion Myth was developed in the late 19th century to explain the blossoming of the Indus River Civilization; but it stems from a flawed argument and old fashioned racist supremacism.
The Aryan Invasion Myth was developed in the late 19th century to explain the blossoming of the Indus River Civilization; but it stems from a flawed argument and old fashioned racist supremacism.
Archaeology Quiz: Easter Island
Archaeology Quiz: Easter Island
Archaeology Quiz: Easter Island
Paleolithic
A definition and chronology of the Stone Age (more commonly known to scholars as the Paleolithic era), which in human prehistory is the name given to the period between about 2.5 million and 20,000 years ago.
A definition and chronology of the Stone Age (more commonly known to scholars as the Paleolithic era), which in human prehistory is the name given to the period between about 2.5 million and 20,000 years ago.
Nalanda University Ruins, India
Nalanda University Ruins, India
Nalanda University Ruins, India
Damascus Steel
Damascus steel, the legendary steel blade scimitar of the Islamic side in the Crusades, was a formidable piece of weaponry for the middle ages. Modern science has given us new insights into how this iron metal was forged, and why this useful technology became lost.
Damascus steel, the legendary steel blade scimitar of the Islamic side in the Crusades, was a formidable piece of weaponry for the middle ages. Modern science has given us new insights into how this iron metal was forged, and why this useful technology became lost.
Silk Worms - Where and When were Silk Worms Domesticated?
Silk worms were first domesticated in China, probably during the Longshan period (3500-2000 BC)
Silk worms were first domesticated in China, probably during the Longshan period (3500-2000 BC)
Dog Domestication
When and where the partnership of dog and humans first occurred is currently under considerable debate.
When and where the partnership of dog and humans first occurred is currently under considerable debate.
Tenochtitlan
The Aztec culture site called Tenochtitlan was located in a very peculiar place today, in a marsh in the middle of a lake surrounded by mountains--a place now called Mexico City.
The Aztec culture site called Tenochtitlan was located in a very peculiar place today, in a marsh in the middle of a lake surrounded by mountains--a place now called Mexico City.
Archaeology Quiz: Tutankhamun's Tomb
Archaeology Quiz: Tutankhamun's Tomb
Archaeology Quiz: Tutankhamun's Tomb
Cro-Magnon
Cro-Magnons are something that every kid hears about growing up; but scientists no longer use the term. What is a cro-magnon and why don't we use that term any more, and what do we use instead?
Cro-Magnons are something that every kid hears about growing up; but scientists no longer use the term. What is a cro-magnon and why don't we use that term any more, and what do we use instead?
The Taj Mahal
The New Seven Wonders: Taj Mahal (India)
The New Seven Wonders: Taj Mahal (India)
Discovery of Fire
The discovery of fire was one of the earliest discoveries of humans. Fire's purposes are multiple, some of which are to add light and heat, to cook plants and animals, to clear forests for planting, to heat-treat stone for making stone tools, to burn clay for ceramic objects.
The discovery of fire was one of the earliest discoveries of humans. Fire's purposes are multiple, some of which are to add light and heat, to cook plants and animals, to clear forests for planting, to heat-treat stone for making stone tools, to burn clay for ceramic objects.
Hunter Gatherers
Hunter gatherers is the name anthropologists have given to people who rely on a combined living of hunting game and gathering root vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Hunting and gathering was the lifestyle of all human beings until the invention of agriculture about 8000 years ago; and, to state it simply, hunter-gatherers hunt game and collect plant foods.
Hunter gatherers is the name anthropologists have given to people who rely on a combined living of hunting game and gathering root vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Hunting and gathering was the lifestyle of all human beings until the invention of agriculture about 8000 years ago; and, to state it simply, hunter-gatherers hunt game and collect plant foods.
Mesopotamia
Mesopotamia is an ancient civilization that took up pretty much everything that today is modern Iraq, a triangular patch wedged between the Tigris River, the Zagros Mountains, and the Lesser Zab River.
Mesopotamia is an ancient civilization that took up pretty much everything that today is modern Iraq, a triangular patch wedged between the Tigris River, the Zagros Mountains, and the Lesser Zab River.
Great Pyramid at Giza
Great Pyramid at Giza
Great Pyramid at Giza
Ramapithecus
Ramapithecus is one of our pre-human ancestors from between 12 and 14 million years ago.
Ramapithecus is one of our pre-human ancestors from between 12 and 14 million years ago.
Aztecs
Aztecs are the collective name given to seven Chichimec tribes of northern Mexico
Aztecs are the collective name given to seven Chichimec tribes of northern Mexico
A Walking Tour of Olympia
Photographer Aschwin Prein provides a walking tour of the ancient Greek classical site of Olympia, the original location of the Olympic Games. Excavations at the site were the direct impetus for the reinstitution of the games, 1700 years after the games were banned.
Photographer Aschwin Prein provides a walking tour of the ancient Greek classical site of Olympia, the original location of the Olympic Games. Excavations at the site were the direct impetus for the reinstitution of the games, 1700 years after the games were banned.
Hampi Ruins, India
Hampi Ruins, India
Hampi Ruins, India
Bitumen
Bitumen is a black, oily, viscous material that is a naturally-occurring organic byproduct of decomposed organic materials; and it was used by humans and our ancestors for any number of very useful things for the past 40,000 years.
Bitumen is a black, oily, viscous material that is a naturally-occurring organic byproduct of decomposed organic materials; and it was used by humans and our ancestors for any number of very useful things for the past 40,000 years.
Palace of Minos
The Palace of Minos is of legendary importance to the world, part of the Aegean culture known known as Minoan is the Bronze Age civilization that flourished on the island of Crete during the second and third millennia B.C.
The Palace of Minos is of legendary importance to the world, part of the Aegean culture known known as Minoan is the Bronze Age civilization that flourished on the island of Crete during the second and third millennia B.C.
Glass Making
Glass is a transparent hard substance created by the application of enormous amounts of heat to sand or quartz. Nature's glass is made by volcanic action, superheating and creating the substance called obsidian.
Glass is a transparent hard substance created by the application of enormous amounts of heat to sand or quartz. Nature's glass is made by volcanic action, superheating and creating the substance called obsidian.
Machu Picchu
The New Seven Wonders: Machu Picchu (Peru)
The New Seven Wonders: Machu Picchu (Peru)
Anthropology
Anthropologists have many interests, traditionally defined in four fields: biological and cultural anthropology, archaeology, and linguistics. Here's a definition of this crucial concept provided by Michael Scullin.
Anthropologists have many interests, traditionally defined in four fields: biological and cultural anthropology, archaeology, and linguistics. Here's a definition of this crucial concept provided by Michael Scullin.
Chickens: When and Where were Chickens Domesticated?
Evidence for chicken domestication suggests that it may have been domesticated several times over the course of several centuries, but beginning by at least 8,000 years ago.
Evidence for chicken domestication suggests that it may have been domesticated several times over the course of several centuries, but beginning by at least 8,000 years ago.
Ancient Egypt: Timeline
Ancient Egypt is considered to have begun about 3050 BC, when the first pharaoh Menes united Lower Egypt (referring to the river delta region of the Nile River), and Upper Egypt (everything south of the delta).
Ancient Egypt is considered to have begun about 3050 BC, when the first pharaoh Menes united Lower Egypt (referring to the river delta region of the Nile River), and Upper Egypt (everything south of the delta).
Indus Civilization
The Indus civilization (also known as the Harappan Civilization, the Indus-Sarasvati or Hakra Civilization) is one of the oldest societies we know of, including over 2600 known archaeological sites located along the Indus and Sarasvati rivers in Pakistan and India
The Indus civilization (also known as the Harappan Civilization, the Indus-Sarasvati or Hakra Civilization) is one of the oldest societies we know of, including over 2600 known archaeological sites located along the Indus and Sarasvati rivers in Pakistan and India
Canterbury Cathedral, England - Archaeology and the Great Churches of the World
The Canterbury Cathedral is probably among the most famous church edifices in the world, partly because of its famous archbishops including St. Augustine, Thomas Cranmer, and Thomas Becket, the last of which was murdered in it in 1170 AD.
The Canterbury Cathedral is probably among the most famous church edifices in the world, partly because of its famous archbishops including St. Augustine, Thomas Cranmer, and Thomas Becket, the last of which was murdered in it in 1170 AD.
Middle Range Theory
A definition of Middle Range theory
A definition of Middle Range theory
Along the Silk Road
Archaeological investigations extend the known age of the ancient road connecting Asia and central Europe known as the Silk Road.
Archaeological investigations extend the known age of the ancient road connecting Asia and central Europe known as the Silk Road.
Phaistos Disk
The Phaistos Disk is the name given to a pottery disk, both sides impressed with mysterious symbols and said to have been discovered by Italian archaeologist Luigi Pernier at the Minoan palace of Phaistos on Crete.
The Phaistos Disk is the name given to a pottery disk, both sides impressed with mysterious symbols and said to have been discovered by Italian archaeologist Luigi Pernier at the Minoan palace of Phaistos on Crete.
Caral
A collection of sites in the Supe Valley of Peru are proving to be the ancestral source of the Inca and other later civilizations of South and Central America. Caral and the other Supe Valley sites promise to teach us why people choose to become urban dwellers.
A collection of sites in the Supe Valley of Peru are proving to be the ancestral source of the Inca and other later civilizations of South and Central America. Caral and the other Supe Valley sites promise to teach us why people choose to become urban dwellers.
Arrowheads
Arrowheads are the most identifiable archaeological artifact in the world. Whether they've personally collected them from nearby farmlands, seen them in museum displays or just watched them being shot into people in John Wayne movies, most people know the triangular tips of arrow shafts are the remnants of a hunting trip.
Arrowheads are the most identifiable archaeological artifact in the world. Whether they've personally collected them from nearby farmlands, seen them in museum displays or just watched them being shot into people in John Wayne movies, most people know the triangular tips of arrow shafts are the remnants of a hunting trip.
Discovery of Troy
Heinrich Schliemann, that quintessential archaeologist of the 19th century, claimed to have discovered the real site of Troy. But did he?
Heinrich Schliemann, that quintessential archaeologist of the 19th century, claimed to have discovered the real site of Troy. But did he?
Shi Huangdi's Tomb (China)
The emperor Shi Huangdi [246-210 BC] was the Tiger of Qin, the first emperor of China, who unified the warring states into one group; his tomb includes the fabulous terra cotta army.
The emperor Shi Huangdi [246-210 BC] was the Tiger of Qin, the first emperor of China, who unified the warring states into one group; his tomb includes the fabulous terra cotta army.
Pompeii
Arguably the best known archaeological site in the world--and one of the best documented on the web.
Arguably the best known archaeological site in the world--and one of the best documented on the web.
Emperor Qin's Terracotta Army
A walking tour of the terracotta army of the Qin Dynasty emperor of China who united China in 221 BC, Emperor Shihuangdi.
A walking tour of the terracotta army of the Qin Dynasty emperor of China who united China in 221 BC, Emperor Shihuangdi.
Tula (Mexico)
The archaeological ruins of Tula (also called Tula de Hidalgo), are located in the Mexican state of Hildalgo about 50 kilometers northwest of Mexico City.
The archaeological ruins of Tula (also called Tula de Hidalgo), are located in the Mexican state of Hildalgo about 50 kilometers northwest of Mexico City.
Archaeology Quiz: Battle of the Little Bighorn
Archaeology Quiz: Battle of the Little Big Horn
Archaeology Quiz: Battle of the Little Big Horn
Unknown Empires
Everyone knows of some ancient civilizations, either from World History classes in school, from books or films, or from television specials on the Discovery Channel, the BBC or Public Broadcasting. Ancient Rome, Ancient Greece, Ancient Egypt, all of these are covered again and again in our books, magazines, and television shows. But there are so many interesting, less well-known civilizations! Here's an admittedly biased selection of some of them and why they are not to be forgotten.
Everyone knows of some ancient civilizations, either from World History classes in school, from books or films, or from television specials on the Discovery Channel, the BBC or Public Broadcasting. Ancient Rome, Ancient Greece, Ancient Egypt, all of these are covered again and again in our books, magazines, and television shows. But there are so many interesting, less well-known civilizations! Here's an admittedly biased selection of some of them and why they are not to be forgotten.
The Blue Mosque of Istanbul - Archaeology and the Great Churches of the World
The Blue Mosque of Istanbul is one of several structures in the ancient city of Constantinople
The Blue Mosque of Istanbul is one of several structures in the ancient city of Constantinople
Deir el-Bahri
Hatshepsut's Deir el-Bahri (also spelled Deir el-Bahari) is one of the most beautiful temples in Egypt, built by the architects of Queen Hatshepsut, a pharaoh of the New Kingdom.
Hatshepsut's Deir el-Bahri (also spelled Deir el-Bahari) is one of the most beautiful temples in Egypt, built by the architects of Queen Hatshepsut, a pharaoh of the New Kingdom.
Aztec Civilization
Facts and figures about the Aztec civilization, including population size, areal extent, crops grown and rituals practiced.
Facts and figures about the Aztec civilization, including population size, areal extent, crops grown and rituals practiced.
Inca Gold Figurine, Peru
This gold figurine, and similar gold pieces from Cuzco, are rare finds. While at one time the Inca had plentiful gold deposits, objects such as this, along with most of Cuzco's gold, were taken by Spanish conquistadors in the early 1500s and shipped to Europe
This gold figurine, and similar gold pieces from Cuzco, are rare finds. While at one time the Inca had plentiful gold deposits, objects such as this, along with most of Cuzco's gold, were taken by Spanish conquistadors in the early 1500s and shipped to Europe
Neolithic Period
The Neolithic period designation is a prime example of how science doesn't come as clean as you can think it, at least in archaeology.
The Neolithic period designation is a prime example of how science doesn't come as clean as you can think it, at least in archaeology.
Olmec Civilization
The Olmec civilization is the name given to a sophisticated central American culture between 1200 and 400 BC.
The Olmec civilization is the name given to a sophisticated central American culture between 1200 and 400 BC.
Careers in Archaeology
What kind of real-life career choices do I have with a degree in archaeology?
What kind of real-life career choices do I have with a degree in archaeology?
Atacama Glyphs
There are over 5,000 prehistoric geoglyphs in the Atacama Desert, and like the Nazca lines, they are mysterious, beautiful and awe-inspiring. Although we can't know the entire reason they were built, researcher Luis Briones believes they are part sign post and part story-telling along a transportation network in an ancient form of combined religious and commercial travel.
There are over 5,000 prehistoric geoglyphs in the Atacama Desert, and like the Nazca lines, they are mysterious, beautiful and awe-inspiring. Although we can't know the entire reason they were built, researcher Luis Briones believes they are part sign post and part story-telling along a transportation network in an ancient form of combined religious and commercial travel.
Dancing Girl
A 4500 year old statuette of a dancing girl from the ancient Harappan town of Mohenjo-Daro dances across space and time into our imaginations.
A 4500 year old statuette of a dancing girl from the ancient Harappan town of Mohenjo-Daro dances across space and time into our imaginations.
Getting into Graduate School
To become a professional archaeologist--that is, a person who earns a living as an archaeologist--one needs a graduate degree. This series is an introduction to gaining the level of training you need to become the next Indiana Jones.
To become a professional archaeologist--that is, a person who earns a living as an archaeologist--one needs a graduate degree. This series is an introduction to gaining the level of training you need to become the next Indiana Jones.
Archaeology Defined
What is Archaeology? The study of archaeology has been defined in a number of silly and serious ways. Here's a collection of pithy quotes from archaeologists and non-archaeologists.
What is Archaeology? The study of archaeology has been defined in a number of silly and serious ways. Here's a collection of pithy quotes from archaeologists and non-archaeologists.
Hoabinhian
The Hoabinhian Period is the name given to that section of Southeast Asian prehistory from about 13,000 to 3000 BC.
The Hoabinhian Period is the name given to that section of Southeast Asian prehistory from about 13,000 to 3000 BC.
Cliff Palace at Mesa Verde
In The Ancient Americas exhibition, visitors will be able to walk through a recreation of a Puebloan household similar to the one shown here at Mesa Verde National Park. Visitors can learn more about how ancient Pueblo people lived, ate and slept through a variety of hands-on interactives.
In The Ancient Americas exhibition, visitors will be able to walk through a recreation of a Puebloan household similar to the one shown here at Mesa Verde National Park. Visitors can learn more about how ancient Pueblo people lived, ate and slept through a variety of hands-on interactives.
Maya Lady Xok
This Maya carving of ruler Lady Xok depicts her experience of a supernatural vision after performing a sacrifice of her own blood. Like many ancient American rulers, Maya elite like Lady Xok, acted not only as political rulers of their community, but also the spiritual ones.
This Maya carving of ruler Lady Xok depicts her experience of a supernatural vision after performing a sacrifice of her own blood. Like many ancient American rulers, Maya elite like Lady Xok, acted not only as political rulers of their community, but also the spiritual ones.
William T. Sanders
American archaeologist William T. Sanders is a Mesoamericanist, having recorded thousands of sites in the Valley of Mexico in his fifty-plus year career.
American archaeologist William T. Sanders is a Mesoamericanist, having recorded thousands of sites in the Valley of Mexico in his fifty-plus year career.
Amelia Earhart's Fate
Amelia Earhart's disappearance in 1937 has long been a fascinating mystery. In this article, Thomas F. King, Senior Archaeologist of the TIGHAR project, reports on recent archaeological evidence concerning what happened to the aviation pioneer and her copilot.
Amelia Earhart's disappearance in 1937 has long been a fascinating mystery. In this article, Thomas F. King, Senior Archaeologist of the TIGHAR project, reports on recent archaeological evidence concerning what happened to the aviation pioneer and her copilot.
St. Paul's Cathedral, London, England - Archaeology and the Great Churches of the World
St. Paul's Cathedral, designed by architect Christopher Wren and built between 1675 and 1710, is the fourth church on this site overlooking London.
St. Paul's Cathedral, designed by architect Christopher Wren and built between 1675 and 1710, is the fourth church on this site overlooking London.
Hagia Sophia, Turkey - Archaeology and the Great Churches of the World
The magnificent Hagia Sophia was built by the Byzantine emperor Justinian between the years AD 532 and 537, and achieved its final form in 563 AD.
The magnificent Hagia Sophia was built by the Byzantine emperor Justinian between the years AD 532 and 537, and achieved its final form in 563 AD.
Hominin
Over the last few years, the word "hominin" has crept into the public news stories about our human ancestors. This is not a misspelling for hominid; this reflects an evolutionary change in the understanding of what it means to be human.
Over the last few years, the word "hominin" has crept into the public news stories about our human ancestors. This is not a misspelling for hominid; this reflects an evolutionary change in the understanding of what it means to be human.
A.D. (or AD)
The initials A.D. (used with or without periods) is an abbreviation for the Latin "Anno Domini", which translates to "the Year of Our Lord," referring to years after the birth of Jesus Christ.
The initials A.D. (used with or without periods) is an abbreviation for the Latin "Anno Domini", which translates to "the Year of Our Lord," referring to years after the birth of Jesus Christ.
Atlantis Rediscovered?
Atlantis has been sought for centures: a geological search for the lost continent of Atlantis includes a bathymetric investigation of an island in the right place, under the right circumstances--but at the wrong time.
Atlantis has been sought for centures: a geological search for the lost continent of Atlantis includes a bathymetric investigation of an island in the right place, under the right circumstances--but at the wrong time.
American Civilizations
The continents of North and South America were 'discovered' by the European civilizations in the late 15th century AD, but their civilizations were vast and complex long before the first European landed. The following are a taste of the complexity of the civilizations of ancient America.
The continents of North and South America were 'discovered' by the European civilizations in the late 15th century AD, but their civilizations were vast and complex long before the first European landed. The following are a taste of the complexity of the civilizations of ancient America.
Nara, Japan
The ancient city of Nara, Japan, is nearing its 1300th anniversary, and the beauty of its intact architecture and the continued integrity of the ancient city's ruins is the result of cautious highway construction policies that take history and archaeology seriously.
The ancient city of Nara, Japan, is nearing its 1300th anniversary, and the beauty of its intact architecture and the continued integrity of the ancient city's ruins is the result of cautious highway construction policies that take history and archaeology seriously.
Linear A
Linear A is the name given to the as-yet-undeciphered written language of the Minoan people on the island of Crete, and it is one of two used during the Proto-palatial period (1900-1700 BC).
Linear A is the name given to the as-yet-undeciphered written language of the Minoan people on the island of Crete, and it is one of two used during the Proto-palatial period (1900-1700 BC).
Timing is Everything
A short course on the various dating methods used in archaeological science over the centuries. Part 1: Relative Dating
A short course on the various dating methods used in archaeological science over the centuries. Part 1: Relative Dating
Franklin's Mastodon Tooth
A tooth from the ancient extinct elephant known as a mastodon was recovered from beneath the floor of a building that at one time belonged to Benjamin Franklin. This artifact undoubtedly belonged to Franklin, and it represents Franklin's role in the scientific understanding of the process of evolution. A podcast tour, contributed by Patrice L. Jeppson the historical archaeology consultant to the Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary Consortium.
A tooth from the ancient extinct elephant known as a mastodon was recovered from beneath the floor of a building that at one time belonged to Benjamin Franklin. This artifact undoubtedly belonged to Franklin, and it represents Franklin's role in the scientific understanding of the process of evolution. A podcast tour, contributed by Patrice L. Jeppson the historical archaeology consultant to the Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary Consortium.
Pompeii, Italy
The Roman city of Pompeii was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 76 AD: But you already knew that, didn't you?
The Roman city of Pompeii was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 76 AD: But you already knew that, didn't you?
Inca Textile Tunic, Peru
This finely woven shirt is an example of the type of textiles created for Inca officials by highly skilled female weavers. The Inca placed great value on textiles of cotton, alpaca and vicuña wool.
This finely woven shirt is an example of the type of textiles created for Inca officials by highly skilled female weavers. The Inca placed great value on textiles of cotton, alpaca and vicuña wool.
Animal Domestication
Domestication is the process of genetically adapting an animal or plant to better suit the needs of human beings; this page includes a definition of domestication and a table of domestication dates for animals in the world.
Domestication is the process of genetically adapting an animal or plant to better suit the needs of human beings; this page includes a definition of domestication and a table of domestication dates for animals in the world.
Arrowhead Myths and Facts
Arrowheads are among the most easily recognized artifact in the world. These little tools are often the subject of a number of myths, legends and misconceptions; here is a description of the five top myths and the five top unknown facts about this ubiquitous stone tool.
Arrowheads are among the most easily recognized artifact in the world. These little tools are often the subject of a number of myths, legends and misconceptions; here is a description of the five top myths and the five top unknown facts about this ubiquitous stone tool.
Babylon (Iraq)
The archaeological site of Babylon was the capital of a small city state of Mesopotamia, named Babylonia, located in what is now Iraq, near the modern town of Hilla.
The archaeological site of Babylon was the capital of a small city state of Mesopotamia, named Babylonia, located in what is now Iraq, near the modern town of Hilla.
Capacocha Ceremony
The capacocha ceremony was an important part of the Inca civilization, in which children were sacrificed to celebrate royal events, or to avoid natural catastrophes.
The capacocha ceremony was an important part of the Inca civilization, in which children were sacrificed to celebrate royal events, or to avoid natural catastrophes.
Aksum
The Kingdom of Aksum (first through sixth centuries AD) was one of the most powerful kingdoms in sub-Saharan Africa, connecting the Roman empire and the rest of the world in the region of the Red Sea.
The Kingdom of Aksum (first through sixth centuries AD) was one of the most powerful kingdoms in sub-Saharan Africa, connecting the Roman empire and the rest of the world in the region of the Red Sea.
Wall of Skulls
Chichen Itza - Wall of Skulls (Tzompantli) - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Chichen Itza - Wall of Skulls (Tzompantli) - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Field Schools
Want to gain experience in archaeology? Thinking about a career or just looking for some interesting things to do with your summer vacation? Then the field school is for you.
Want to gain experience in archaeology? Thinking about a career or just looking for some interesting things to do with your summer vacation? Then the field school is for you.
Danger Cave (USA)
Danger Cave, located in western Utah in the American southwest, contains evidence of 11,000 years of occupation in the desert southwest.
Danger Cave, located in western Utah in the American southwest, contains evidence of 11,000 years of occupation in the desert southwest.
Sacred Well, Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza - Sacred Cenote - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Chichen Itza - Sacred Cenote - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Minoan Civilization
The Minoan civilization is what archaeologists call the early part of the prehistoric Bronze Age of Greece.
The Minoan civilization is what archaeologists call the early part of the prehistoric Bronze Age of Greece.
Google Earth and Archaeology
Google Earth, software that uses high resolution satellite images of the entire planet to allow the user to get an incredible moving aerial view of our world, has stimulated some serious applications in archaeology--and seriously good fun for fans of archaeology.
Google Earth, software that uses high resolution satellite images of the entire planet to allow the user to get an incredible moving aerial view of our world, has stimulated some serious applications in archaeology--and seriously good fun for fans of archaeology.
Inca Empire Study Guide
The Inca empire was the largest pre-hispanic empire of South America when it was 'discovered' by the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century AD.
The Inca empire was the largest pre-hispanic empire of South America when it was 'discovered' by the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century AD.
Settlement Patterns
One of the core concepts of the study of archaeology is settlement pattern studies.
One of the core concepts of the study of archaeology is settlement pattern studies.
Lucy
Lucy is the name of the nearly complete skeleton of an Australopithecus afarensis, found in 1974 at AL 288, a site in the Hadar archaeological region on the Afar Triangle of Ethiopia.
Lucy is the name of the nearly complete skeleton of an Australopithecus afarensis, found in 1974 at AL 288, a site in the Hadar archaeological region on the Afar Triangle of Ethiopia.
Taj Mahal
Taj Mahal
Taj Mahal
Hieroglyphic Symbols
Hieroglyphic symbols are a form of writing which uses little pictures to represent actions or things.
Hieroglyphic symbols are a form of writing which uses little pictures to represent actions or things.
Caracol (The Observatory
Chichen Itza - Caracol - The Observatory - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Chichen Itza - Caracol - The Observatory - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Pigs - When and Where were Pigs Domesticated?
Pigs were first domesticated at least about 9,000 years ago, in central Asia.
Pigs were first domesticated at least about 9,000 years ago, in central Asia.
Out of Africa Hypothesis
The Out of Africa or African Replacement Hypothesis argues that every living human being is descended from a small group in Africa.
The Out of Africa or African Replacement Hypothesis argues that every living human being is descended from a small group in Africa.
Maya Civilization
The Maya Civilization occupied much of the central North American continent between 2500 BC and AD 1500.
The Maya Civilization occupied much of the central North American continent between 2500 BC and AD 1500.
El Castillo
El Castillo (Kukulcan or the Castle), Chichen Itza, Mexico
El Castillo (Kukulcan or the Castle), Chichen Itza, Mexico
Archaeology Quiz: Black Death
Archaeology Quiz: Black Death
Archaeology Quiz: Black Death
The Kingdom of Kush
After classical Egypt, the first civilization in Africa was called Kush or Kushite, located on the third cataract of the Nile River in what is now the Sudan.
After classical Egypt, the first civilization in Africa was called Kush or Kushite, located on the third cataract of the Nile River in what is now the Sudan.
Sanchi Ruins, India
Sanchi Ruins, India
Sanchi Ruins, India
Clovis Spear Point
As Ice Age hunter-gatherers, the Clovis people relied on expertly crafted spear points like this for a successful hunt. This spear point would have been tied to a long shaft with animal sinew and could have penetrated the thick skins of mammoths and other large mammals extinct today.
As Ice Age hunter-gatherers, the Clovis people relied on expertly crafted spear points like this for a successful hunt. This spear point would have been tied to a long shaft with animal sinew and could have penetrated the thick skins of mammoths and other large mammals extinct today.
Deciphering Linear B
Did Homer invent a whole new writing system in Greece? No--but the method by which the ancient written forms of Greek are being decoded makes fascinating reading.
Did Homer invent a whole new writing system in Greece? No--but the method by which the ancient written forms of Greek are being decoded makes fascinating reading.
Neanderthals Study Guide
A few important facts about Neandertals, part of an intensive study guide about these human ancestors
A few important facts about Neandertals, part of an intensive study guide about these human ancestors
Aztec Sculpture, Templo Mayor, Mexico City
This Aztec stone statue is similar to others that were found buried between construction layers of the Great Temple, known as "Templo Mayor," which is today located in the middle of modern Mexico City. It is believed that the Aztec people may have placed such statues in the Great Temple as offerings or to increase the sacred power of the temple.
This Aztec stone statue is similar to others that were found buried between construction layers of the Great Temple, known as "Templo Mayor," which is today located in the middle of modern Mexico City. It is believed that the Aztec people may have placed such statues in the Great Temple as offerings or to increase the sacred power of the temple.
Australian Settlement
New mitochondrial data reported in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on May 7, 2007, supports the somewhat still controversial Australian colonization as having occurred at about 50,000 bp--and that it was a single founder population who were subsequently isolated from the rest of the world.
New mitochondrial data reported in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on May 7, 2007, supports the somewhat still controversial Australian colonization as having occurred at about 50,000 bp--and that it was a single founder population who were subsequently isolated from the rest of the world.
Khafre's Pyramid at Giza
Khafre's Pyramid at Giza
Khafre's Pyramid at Giza
Archaeology Quiz: Inca Civilization
Archaeology Quiz: Inca Civilization
Archaeology Quiz: Inca Civilization
Kushinagar Ruins, India
Kushinagar Ruins, India
Kushinagar Ruins, India
Pine Nuts and Archaeology
The harvest of tasty and calorie-rich pine nuts in the mountains of the American southwest has been going on for nearly 10,000 years; and I think I can guess why.
The harvest of tasty and calorie-rich pine nuts in the mountains of the American southwest has been going on for nearly 10,000 years; and I think I can guess why.
Ancient Quipu Found at Caral
Archaeological evidence of quipu recovered from an archaeological site belonging to the ancient civilization of Caral in coastal Peru is nearly as old as Mesopotamian cuneiform and has the potential to rewrite the history of human civilization on planet earth.
Archaeological evidence of quipu recovered from an archaeological site belonging to the ancient civilization of Caral in coastal Peru is nearly as old as Mesopotamian cuneiform and has the potential to rewrite the history of human civilization on planet earth.
Mount Sandel, Ireland
Mount Sandel is the name of a small cluster of the oldest houses in Ireland, first built about 9,000 years ago. The seven small circular huts housed a small group, probably a nuclear family, as they fished and hunted on the banks of the River Bann at Coleraine.
Mount Sandel is the name of a small cluster of the oldest houses in Ireland, first built about 9,000 years ago. The seven small circular huts housed a small group, probably a nuclear family, as they fished and hunted on the banks of the River Bann at Coleraine.
Lower Paleolithic Period
The Lower Paleolithic period (2.7 million to 200,000 years ago) is the first archaeology, that is to say, that period when the first evidence of what scientists consider human behaviors occurred.
The Lower Paleolithic period (2.7 million to 200,000 years ago) is the first archaeology, that is to say, that period when the first evidence of what scientists consider human behaviors occurred.
Lustreware Illustrated - Islamic Lustreware Origins and Technique
Lustreware is difficult to adequately describe, and even excellent photographs do not approach the visual thrill of the light playing across its surface. But here's a try.
Lustreware is difficult to adequately describe, and even excellent photographs do not approach the visual thrill of the light playing across its surface. But here's a try.
Toltec Civilization
The Toltec Civilization was one of three great empires of the Basin of Mexico, after the fall of Teotihuacan and before the rise of the Aztecs.
The Toltec Civilization was one of three great empires of the Basin of Mexico, after the fall of Teotihuacan and before the rise of the Aztecs.
The Great Wall of China
The New Seven Wonders: The Great Wall of China
The New Seven Wonders: The Great Wall of China
The Roman Colosseum
New Seven Wonders: The Roman Colosseum (Italy)
New Seven Wonders: The Roman Colosseum (Italy)
Letters of Reference
Should you use a letter from an employer as a referee in your graduate student application?
Should you use a letter from an employer as a referee in your graduate student application?
Rozafa Castle, Shkodra, Albania
Rozafa Castle, Shkodra, Albania
Rozafa Castle, Shkodra, Albania
Tirana Mosque of Et'hem Bey, Albania
Tirana Mosque of Et'hem Bey, Albania
Tirana Mosque of Et'hem Bey, Albania
Field Technician Contacts
Whether you're looking for a job in archaeology or merely thinking about going into graduate school, this page is the starting point for you.
Whether you're looking for a job in archaeology or merely thinking about going into graduate school, this page is the starting point for you.
Writing Samples
Sending along a sample of your writing will show your prospective school how well you communicate--something that is very useful in archaeology.
Sending along a sample of your writing will show your prospective school how well you communicate--something that is very useful in archaeology.
Fig Trees
Archaeological investigations have identified parthenocarpic fig fruits in six sites in the greater Mediterranean Sea region dated between 11,700 and 10,500 years ago, leading researchers to believe this is the earliest known indication of fig domestication in the world.
Archaeological investigations have identified parthenocarpic fig fruits in six sites in the greater Mediterranean Sea region dated between 11,700 and 10,500 years ago, leading researchers to believe this is the earliest known indication of fig domestication in the world.
What is Ecotourism
Ecotourism is not simply adventure travel or travel off the beaten path, but rather a specific type of travel with conditions set by an international community.
Ecotourism is not simply adventure travel or travel off the beaten path, but rather a specific type of travel with conditions set by an international community.
Temple of the Warriors
Chichen Itza - Temple of the Warriors - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Chichen Itza - Temple of the Warriors - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Great Ball Court, Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza - Ball Court - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Chichen Itza - Ball Court - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Why Go?
Deciding to go to graduate school is one of the tougher decisions you'll have to make as a beginning archaeologist. To be a career archaeologist, you'll need that advanced degree; but having it may not be the best ticket to another career. Here are some suggestions.
Deciding to go to graduate school is one of the tougher decisions you'll have to make as a beginning archaeologist. To be a career archaeologist, you'll need that advanced degree; but having it may not be the best ticket to another career. Here are some suggestions.
Deir el-Medina (Egypt)
Deir el-Medina is a New Kingdom (18th dynasty) residential village of the workmen who built and decorated Egyptian tombs in the Valley of the Kings.
Deir el-Medina is a New Kingdom (18th dynasty) residential village of the workmen who built and decorated Egyptian tombs in the Valley of the Kings.
Harappa (Pakistan)
Harappa is a large city of the Indus Civilization, and one of the best known sites in Pakistan, located on the bank of the Ravi River in Punjab Province.
Harappa is a large city of the Indus Civilization, and one of the best known sites in Pakistan, located on the bank of the Ravi River in Punjab Province.
Jericho (Palestine)
Jericho (also called Tell es-Sultan) is the name of tell situated on an ancient lake bed plain in what is known as the West Bank, in the territory belonging to Palestine.
Jericho (also called Tell es-Sultan) is the name of tell situated on an ancient lake bed plain in what is known as the West Bank, in the territory belonging to Palestine.
Pueblo Bonito, Chaco Canyon
Located in present-day northwestern New Mexico, Pueblo Bonito was one of many spectacular "Great Houses" built by the Chaco peoples. The massive structure was a four to five-story monumental ruin covering two acres and incorporating about 650 rooms. The exhibition The Ancient Americas tells the fascinating stories of the Chaco peoples and other societies.
Located in present-day northwestern New Mexico, Pueblo Bonito was one of many spectacular "Great Houses" built by the Chaco peoples. The massive structure was a four to five-story monumental ruin covering two acres and incorporating about 650 rooms. The exhibition The Ancient Americas tells the fascinating stories of the Chaco peoples and other societies.
Lustreware History - Islamic Lustreware Origins and Techniques
The earliest lustres were most likely made in Iraq during the reign of Harun al Rashid (AD 766-809). The history of lustres suggests that until Abu'l Qasim published his book about 1300, the technique was a closely-guarded secret of one family or guild of potters.
The earliest lustres were most likely made in Iraq during the reign of Harun al Rashid (AD 766-809). The history of lustres suggests that until Abu'l Qasim published his book about 1300, the technique was a closely-guarded secret of one family or guild of potters.
Ludlow Coal Massacre
In April 1914, the Colorado National Guard opened fire on a tent city of striking minors and their families, killing 25 people. The outcome of the Ludlow Coal Massacre led to the reformation of labor practices in the country; and so the site is #1 on our list of battle sites to visit.
In April 1914, the Colorado National Guard opened fire on a tent city of striking minors and their families, killing 25 people. The outcome of the Ludlow Coal Massacre led to the reformation of labor practices in the country; and so the site is #1 on our list of battle sites to visit.
Casas Grandes (Mexico)
Casas Grandes (or Paquimé) was a large, influential capital city of the Casas Grandes polity in the state of Chihuahua, northern Mexico.
Casas Grandes (or Paquimé) was a large, influential capital city of the Casas Grandes polity in the state of Chihuahua, northern Mexico.
Venus Figurines
"Venus figurine" is the name given to a nearly universal type of art, appearing first in the Upper Paleolithic period between 30,000 and 15,000 years ago.
"Venus figurine" is the name given to a nearly universal type of art, appearing first in the Upper Paleolithic period between 30,000 and 15,000 years ago.
The Tools of the Trade: The Total Station Transit
A Total Station transit helps an archaeologist make an accurate map of an archaeological site
A Total Station transit helps an archaeologist make an accurate map of an archaeological site
Clovis People
The Clovis culture is the earliest well-established human culture in the North American continent
The Clovis culture is the earliest well-established human culture in the North American continent
The Nunnery Annex
Chichen Itza - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Chichen Itza - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Making Lustreware - Islamic Lustreware Origins and Techniques
To make a classic lustreware pot, the potter began with a vessel of Samarra body, and then glazed it with an alkaline glaze enhanced with particles of tin oxide and lead. Theae glazed vessels were then fired.
To make a classic lustreware pot, the potter began with a vessel of Samarra body, and then glazed it with an alkaline glaze enhanced with particles of tin oxide and lead. Theae glazed vessels were then fired.
Maya Carving with Glyphs
This fragment was found in part of the Maya kingdom in Belize, and though the text is incomplete, it tells of a ruler known as K'an III whose military skills earned him the title "He of 20 Captives." The bound figure in the relief may represent one of his captives.
This fragment was found in part of the Maya kingdom in Belize, and though the text is incomplete, it tells of a ruler known as K'an III whose military skills earned him the title "He of 20 Captives." The bound figure in the relief may represent one of his captives.
Little Bighorn
The Battle of Little Bighorn was the site of the first intensive battlefield archaeology studies, conducted between 1985 and 1989, by Richard Fox, Douglas Scott and Melissa Connor who investigated the dry hills of southeastern Montana for cartridge cases, bullets, army equipment, clothing fragments and skeletal remains: all that was left of George Armstrong Custer and his doomed 7th calvary.
The Battle of Little Bighorn was the site of the first intensive battlefield archaeology studies, conducted between 1985 and 1989, by Richard Fox, Douglas Scott and Melissa Connor who investigated the dry hills of southeastern Montana for cartridge cases, bullets, army equipment, clothing fragments and skeletal remains: all that was left of George Armstrong Custer and his doomed 7th calvary.
Sacred Cenote
Chichen Itza - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Chichen Itza - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Emerging Complexity
Ancient civilizations sometimes evolve from simpler societies; this much is apparent. The characteristics which identify increasing complexity include a range of different elements.
Ancient civilizations sometimes evolve from simpler societies; this much is apparent. The characteristics which identify increasing complexity include a range of different elements.
The Lion Gate at Hattusha: City of the Hittites
The southwestern gate of the upper city of Hattusha was guarded by a pair of stone lions standing at the base of a parabola arch and guard towers.
The southwestern gate of the upper city of Hattusha was guarded by a pair of stone lions standing at the base of a parabola arch and guard towers.
Origins of Races
How did human society break into races, and what does that mean? A bibliography of recent studies on human races.
How did human society break into races, and what does that mean? A bibliography of recent studies on human races.
Tang Dynasty Influences - Lustreware Origins and Techniques
The origins of any craft are myriad, and lustreware is no exception. Strong associations between Islamic lustrewares and Chinese ceramics have long been recognized by art historians.
The origins of any craft are myriad, and lustreware is no exception. Strong associations between Islamic lustrewares and Chinese ceramics have long been recognized by art historians.
Google Earth Map of Tiwanaku
Google Earth Map of Tiwanaku
Google Earth Map of Tiwanaku
Angkor (Cambodia)
The Angkor Civilization (or Khmer Civilization) is the name given to an important civilization of southeast Asia, including all of Cambodia and southeastern Thailand and northern Vietnam
The Angkor Civilization (or Khmer Civilization) is the name given to an important civilization of southeast Asia, including all of Cambodia and southeastern Thailand and northern Vietnam
Moche Portrait Vessel
This portrait vessel, with its commanding features, depicts a prominent ancient Moche ruler from northern Peru. The Moche people were masters of sculpture and frequently depicted elite individuals through sculpture, often creating record of their childhood, adulthood and even death.
This portrait vessel, with its commanding features, depicts a prominent ancient Moche ruler from northern Peru. The Moche people were masters of sculpture and frequently depicted elite individuals through sculpture, often creating record of their childhood, adulthood and even death.
Mesolithic Period
The Mesolithic period is traditionally that time period in the Old World between the last glaciation (ca. 10,000 years BP) and beginning of the Neolithic (ca. 5000 years BP)
The Mesolithic period is traditionally that time period in the Old World between the last glaciation (ca. 10,000 years BP) and beginning of the Neolithic (ca. 5000 years BP)
American CRM
A list of cultural resource firms that are based primarily in the United States and conduct archaeological studies.
A list of cultural resource firms that are based primarily in the United States and conduct archaeological studies.
Predynastic Egypt
The Predynastic period in Egypt is the name archaeologists have given to the three millennia before the emergence of the first unified Egyptian state society.
The Predynastic period in Egypt is the name archaeologists have given to the three millennia before the emergence of the first unified Egyptian state society.
The Islamic Historian Abu'l Qasim - Islamic Lustreware
Abu'l Qasim was a historian and member of the guild of potters responsible for the manufacture of Islamic lustrewares in the 13th and 14th centuries.
Abu'l Qasim was a historian and member of the guild of potters responsible for the manufacture of Islamic lustrewares in the 13th and 14th centuries.