| When many people think of "Archaeology," they think of Indiana Jones. Which are definitely exciting movies to watch (I have a fedora myself), but that is what they are...movies. Indiana Jones does not portray a true archaeologist...but more of a treasure hunter. This goes against the fundamental values and work that true archaeologists do. When a historical site is "dug up" or artifacts are pillaged it destroys any chance of learning more about that culture! Webster's Dictionary defines archaeology as, "The scientific study of the life and culture of past, especially ancient, peoples as by excavation of ancient cities, artifacts, etc." Essentially, Archaeology is the study of past cultures and human interaction with the environment. Information on prehistoric and historic civilizations is garnered from the artifacts that have survived or left imprints through time. Examining these artifacts, remains, lands, and structures can provide insight into a cultures history, age, structure, community, religious aspects, and much more! Archaeologists want to learn as much as they can about past cultures. Using various techniques (more in methodology/practice) they are able to examine and make assessments of a culture. |
| AOR Archaeology Online Resources |
| What is Archaeology? |
| "Discover, Explore, and Learn from the Past!" |
| Here you can find a brief overview on Archaeology and a glossary of terminology. |
| Archaeometry - Archaeological Science which deals with the physical and/or chemical analysis of archaeological substances, such as age, residues, etc. Artifact - The basic item that is analyzed by archaeologists. It is any type of item that is movable, made, modified, or used by humans. These can include tools, clothing, ritual items, etc. Assemblage - All of the material and/or items that have been collected from a particular site. Butchering Site - A location where an animal was cleaned, dressed, and/or "utilized." It may or may not have been the "Kill Site." Cremations - Bodies which have been burned. Ecofacts - Items that are not manipulated, biological remains resulting from human activities. Examples include plants, animals, seeds, charcoal, etc. Geofacts - Items that appear to be modified by humans, but are nothing more than the workings of environmental processes (which can still be exciting to see). Some geofacts can easily mislead people into thinking they are authentic artifacts. Geoglyphs - A design consisting of various rocks or creating designs in the surface of the earth. Such as the Nazca Lines. Habitation Site - A location where people lived for a period of time. Not a permanent location. |
| Glossary of Common Archaeological Terms |
| Basic Definition |
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| In Situ - This is a latin phrase for "found in place." it refers to an item or artifact having a specific provenience. In essence, the exact location where an artifact was left, lost, etc. Inhumations - Bodies which have been buried or interred and unburned. Kill Site - The location where an animal or animals were killed. Midden - Areas of modified soil or other deposits which are made up of discarded material from past people living at a site. Basically a garbage pile. Middens often contain broken tools, used artifacts, shell, bones, plant material, charcoal, and a variety of "trash." Petroglyphs - A form of rock art that consists of various designs being etched or carved into the surface. Pictographs - A form of rock art that consists of various designs painted on the surface. Such as what can be seen at the Grand Canyon and many other locations around the world. Processing Site - A location where humans processed plants, foods, and other materials. Quarry - A site where stone was removed from a larger source. Usually for making various tools. |
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