Chapter 16: Historical Archaeology: Insights on American History
What Students Should Learn From Chapter 16
1.
Historical Archaeology examines the material remains and written records of past
societies.
2.
During the first half of the 20th century, historical archaeology was primarily
concerned with supplementing historical records, serving as a “handmaiden of
history,” and aiding in the interpretation of famous historical sites for the public.
3.
In the later half of the 20th century, processual archaeologists began to refine
archaeological methods and theories by using historical documentation as a
control. During this same time period, historical archaeology began to examine
historically disenfranchised groups in American culture.
4.
Postprocessual examinations can also use historical archaeology because written
accounts can provide contexts for interpretation of archaeological data. The
studies of the symbolic meanings in material culture are also aided by historical
documentation.
5.
Historical archaeology is currently one of the most rapidly expanding areas in
Americanist archaeology.