Archaeology: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
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.
A.D. (or AD)
: The initials A.D. (used with or without periods) is an abbreviation for the Latin "Anno Domini", which
: The initials A.D. (used with or without periods) is an abbreviation for the Latin "Anno Domini", which
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.
Aztec Gods
Learn more about Aztec gods and religion, Refer to this page to know the most important Aztec gods
Learn more about Aztec gods and religion, Refer to this page to know the most important Aztec gods
The Iceman
The Iceman is the name of a 5,300-year-old human body discovered high in the Swiss/Italian Alps in 1991.
The Iceman is the name of a 5,300-year-old human body discovered high in the Swiss/Italian Alps in 1991.
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.
El Sidrón (Spain)
El Sidron is an archaeological site in the Asturias region of northern Spain where the remains of at least 12 Neanderthals have been recovered.
El Sidron is an archaeological site in the Asturias region of northern Spain where the remains of at least 12 Neanderthals have been recovered.
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.
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.
Cat History and Domestication
Although available evidence makes it difficult to say, the modern day cat was permanently domesticated about 4000 years ago, in Egypt.
Although available evidence makes it difficult to say, the modern day cat was permanently domesticated about 4000 years ago, in Egypt.
The Sphinx
The Sphinx, Old Kingdom, Egypt
The Sphinx, Old Kingdom, Egypt
Vikings
The Vikings were a farming culture, who originated in Scandinavia about the 4th century AD, and began to spread out and conquer the Europe in the 9th century AD. They were mostly defeated or subsumed into other cultures by the 13th century AD.
The Vikings were a farming culture, who originated in Scandinavia about the 4th century AD, and began to spread out and conquer the Europe in the 9th century AD. They were mostly defeated or subsumed into other cultures by the 13th century AD.
Emperor Qin's 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.
Maya Civilization Guide
Facts about the economics, politics, warfare, rituals, architecture, and other interesting things to know about the Maya Civilization
Facts about the economics, politics, warfare, rituals, architecture, and other interesting things to know about the Maya Civilization
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.
Become an Archaeologist
Have you always dreamed of being an archaeologist, but don't know how to become one? To become an archaeologist takes education, reading, training, and persistence. Here's how you can get started exploring that dream job
Have you always dreamed of being an archaeologist, but don't know how to become one? To become an archaeologist takes education, reading, training, and persistence. Here's how you can get started exploring that dream job
Aztecs and the Aztec Civilizat
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
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.
History of Chickens
The history of chickens and when they were domesticated is something of a puzzle, but most likely it was about 8,000 years ago in Thailand.
The history of chickens and when they were domesticated is something of a puzzle, but most likely it was about 8,000 years ago in Thailand.
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
Top 10 Things to Know about th
Short list of the main facts and aspects of Aztec culture
Short list of the main facts and aspects of Aztec culture
What Every Kid Wants to Know
What kind of job can I get in archaeology? Does it pay well? Do you have to work when it's hot? These are the questions that everyone who is thinking about being an archaeologist wants to know.
What kind of job can I get in archaeology? Does it pay well? Do you have to work when it's hot? These are the questions that everyone who is thinking about being an archaeologist wants to know.
Domestication of Cattle
Although evidence for hunting wild forms of cattle exists at archaeological sites dated to our earliest days on the planet, herding cattle was first accomplished in Western Asia by about 6000 BC, and in perhaps the eastern Sahara desert about 1000 years earlier.
Although evidence for hunting wild forms of cattle exists at archaeological sites dated to our earliest days on the planet, herding cattle was first accomplished in Western Asia by about 6000 BC, and in perhaps the eastern Sahara desert about 1000 years earlier.
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.
Background Research
Background research refers to accessing the collection of previously published and unpublished information about a site, region, or particular topic of interest and it is the first step of all good archaeological investigations, as well as that of all writers of any kind of research paper.
Background research refers to accessing the collection of previously published and unpublished information about a site, region, or particular topic of interest and it is the first step of all good archaeological investigations, as well as that of all writers of any kind of research paper.
Huitzilopochtli – Aztec God of War and Sacrifice
Huitzilopochtli, the Aztec god of war and sacrifice, learn more about Aztec mythology and religion
Huitzilopochtli, the Aztec god of war and sacrifice, learn more about Aztec mythology and religion
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.
Guide to the Inca Empire
The Inca were the largest pre-hispanic empire of South America when it was 'discovered' by the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century AD.
The Inca were the largest pre-hispanic empire of South America when it was 'discovered' by the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century AD.
Cro-Magnon
Cro-Magnons are what scholars now call Anatomically Modern Humans or Early Modern Humans, mostly because Cro-Magnon refers to to a specific archaeological site which isn't really typical of the rest
Cro-Magnons are what scholars now call Anatomically Modern Humans or Early Modern Humans, mostly because Cro-Magnon refers to to a specific archaeological site which isn't really typical of the rest
Quipu (Khipu, Quipo)
The quipu (also spelled khipu or quipo) is the only known precolumbian information system in South America.
The quipu (also spelled khipu or quipo) is the only known precolumbian information system in South America.
Aztec Religion
The Aztecs had a complex set of beliefs, ceremonies and gods, each one overlloking an aspect of human life...
The Aztecs had a complex set of beliefs, ceremonies and gods, each one overlloking an aspect of human life...
Aztec Sacrifices
The Aztecs, or more properly the Mexica, practiced several different types of ritual sacrifice to secure the benevolence of the gods.
The Aztecs, or more properly the Mexica, practiced several different types of ritual sacrifice to secure the benevolence of the gods.
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.
Collapse of Angkor
The end of the Khmer Empire (or Angkor civilization) came about as a direct result of the civilization's inability to adapt to an extended drought brought about by climate change.
The end of the Khmer Empire (or Angkor civilization) came about as a direct result of the civilization's inability to adapt to an extended drought brought about by climate change.
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
Great 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.
Quetzalcoatl
The Aztec god Quetzalcoatl, the Feathered Serpent, is one of the most famous pre-Columbian deity and his cult was widespread in many Mesoamerican cultures
The Aztec god Quetzalcoatl, the Feathered Serpent, is one of the most famous pre-Columbian deity and his cult was widespread in many Mesoamerican cultures
Hominin
: Over the last few years, the word "hominin" has crept into the public news stories about our human
: Over the last few years, the word "hominin" has crept into the public news stories about our human
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.
Material Culture
: The term "material culture" is often used by archaeologists as a non-specific way to refer to the artifacts
: The term "material culture" is often used by archaeologists as a non-specific way to refer to the artifacts
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
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.
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.
BP (or B.P.)
Archaeologists use the term 'BP' to mean 'years before humans began to screw up the atmosphere by testing nuclear devices'.
Archaeologists use the term 'BP' to mean 'years before humans began to screw up the atmosphere by testing nuclear devices'.
Palace of Minos
The Palace of Minos, excavated by Arthur Evans, is a standard Minoan palace of extraordinary size, begun during the prepalatial period of the Minoan civilization.
The Palace of Minos, excavated by Arthur Evans, is a standard Minoan palace of extraordinary size, begun during the prepalatial period of the Minoan civilization.
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.
Guide to the Olmec Civilization
Facts about the Olmec concerning their colossal heads of stone, their written language, their rituals, their artwork
Facts about the Olmec concerning their colossal heads of stone, their written language, their rituals, their artwork
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.
Career Choices 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?
The New Seven Wonders of the World
A quick photo tour of the new seven wonders of the world--plus some extras that readers say should be in there, too.
A quick photo tour of the new seven wonders of the world--plus some extras that readers say should be in there, too.
Viking Social Structure
Viking society is traditionally described as highly stratified, with three classes as written into mythology, slaves (thrall), farmers (karl), and aristocracy (jarl or earl)V
Viking society is traditionally described as highly stratified, with three classes as written into mythology, slaves (thrall), farmers (karl), and aristocracy (jarl or earl)V
Indus Seals
Recent investigation of seals from the ancient Indus Civilization suggest that the glyphs represent a full, as-yet-deciphered language.
Recent investigation of seals from the ancient Indus Civilization suggest that the glyphs represent a full, as-yet-deciphered language.
Persian Empire
At its height about 500 BC, the Persian empire had conquered Asia as far as the Indus River, Greece, and North Africa including what is now Egypt and Libya.
At its height about 500 BC, the Persian empire had conquered Asia as far as the Indus River, Greece, and North Africa including what is now Egypt and Libya.
Tlaloc, the Aztec Rain God
Tlaloc, the rain god, was one of the most important gods in Aztec religion
Tlaloc, the rain god, was one of the most important gods in Aztec religion
Machu Picchu (Peru)
The New Seven Wonders: Machu Picchu (Peru)
The New Seven Wonders: Machu Picchu (Peru)
Multiregional Hypothesis
The Multiregional Hypothesis argues that our earliest hominid ancestors radiated out from Africa and Homo sapiens evolved from several different groups of Homo erectus in several places throughout the world.
The Multiregional Hypothesis argues that our earliest hominid ancestors radiated out from Africa and Homo sapiens evolved from several different groups of Homo erectus in several places throughout the world.
Islamic Civilization
The Islamic Civilization is in reality an amalgam of wide variety of cultures, from North Africa to the western periphery of the Pacific Ocean, and from Central Asia to sub-Saharan Africa.
The Islamic Civilization is in reality an amalgam of wide variety of cultures, from North Africa to the western periphery of the Pacific Ocean, and from Central Asia to sub-Saharan Africa.
Ancient Farming
Ancient farming methods used by farmers throughout the world varied quite a bit. Farmers developed many ways to maintain soils, ward off frost and freeze cycles and protect their crops from animals. On this page you'll find core concept definitions, articles on examples of archaeological research into ancient farming, detailed examination of some special farming techniques and bibliographies of related topics.
Ancient farming methods used by farmers throughout the world varied quite a bit. Farmers developed many ways to maintain soils, ward off frost and freeze cycles and protect their crops from animals. On this page you'll find core concept definitions, articles on examples of archaeological research into ancient farming, detailed examination of some special farming techniques and bibliographies of related topics.
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?
Plant Domestication
A collection of plant histories, when and where humans domesticated them, with a table of dates and places and links to the stories themselves.
A collection of plant histories, when and where humans domesticated them, with a table of dates and places and links to the stories themselves.
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.
Moche Guide
The Moche culture was a South American society, whose sites were located along the arid coast of what is now Peru between 100 and 800 AD
The Moche culture was a South American society, whose sites were located along the arid coast of what is now Peru between 100 and 800 AD
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.
Mayan Economics
The Maya civilization had an extensive economic system, based on trade and agriculture. Here are some details of some of that system.
The Maya civilization had an extensive economic system, based on trade and agriculture. Here are some details of some of that system.
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.
Cultural Evolution
Cultural evolution is the theory that culture changes over time as an adaptive response to stimulus.
Cultural evolution is the theory that culture changes over time as an adaptive response to stimulus.
Pompeii Streets
A few of the streets were wide enough for two-way traffic; and some of them had stepping stones midway.
A few of the streets were wide enough for two-way traffic; and some of them had stepping stones midway.
Horses
The modern domesticated horse (Equus caballus) is spread throughout the world and is among the most diverse creatures on the planet.
The modern domesticated horse (Equus caballus) is spread throughout the world and is among the most diverse creatures on the planet.
Stratigraphy
In archaeology, the study of stratigraphy involves looking at the geological and archaeological layers that make up an archaeological deposit to better understand the processes that created the site.
In archaeology, the study of stratigraphy involves looking at the geological and archaeological layers that make up an archaeological deposit to better understand the processes that created the site.
Guide to the Angkor Civilization
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
Radiocarbon Dating
Radiocarbon dating is a method used by archaeologist to date organic materials by comparing the amount of Carbon 14 (C14) available in living creatures as a measuring stick.
Radiocarbon dating is a method used by archaeologist to date organic materials by comparing the amount of Carbon 14 (C14) available in living creatures as a measuring stick.
Ur (Iraq)
The Mesopotamian city of Ur, known as Tell al-Muqayyar, was an important Sumerian city state between about 2025-1738 BC.
The Mesopotamian city of Ur, known as Tell al-Muqayyar, was an important Sumerian city state between about 2025-1738 BC.
Damascus Steel - Sword Makers
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.
Silkworms and Silk Making
The use of the silk worm species Bombyx to produce cloth was invented at least as early as the Longshan period (3500-2000 BC), and perhaps earlier.
The use of the silk worm species Bombyx to produce cloth was invented at least as early as the Longshan period (3500-2000 BC), and perhaps earlier.
Complex Societies
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.
Mesolithic
The Mesolithic period falls between the Paleolithic and Neolithic.
The Mesolithic period falls between the Paleolithic and Neolithic.
Feudalism
: Feudalism is a construct of post-medieval scholars, referring to a system of political organization,
: Feudalism is a construct of post-medieval scholars, referring to a system of political organization,
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.
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.
Silk Worms
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)
History Definition
Historians study the past by examining and analyzing the written documents of what people have written about past events. Here is a collection of the definition of history.
Historians study the past by examining and analyzing the written documents of what people have written about past events. Here is a collection of the definition of history.
Shoes and Footwear History
Evidence for the earliest use of shoes--protective covering of the foot--appears to date from the Middle Paleolithic period of approximately 40,000 years ago.
Evidence for the earliest use of shoes--protective covering of the foot--appears to date from the Middle Paleolithic period of approximately 40,000 years ago.
Viking History
The Viking Age was a time of great change on the European continent. The Viking Age traditionally refers to the period in northern Europe between the first Scandinavian raid on England, in AD 793, and ends with the death villa Harald Hardrada in 1066, in a failed attempt to attain the English throne.
The Viking Age was a time of great change on the European continent. The Viking Age traditionally refers to the period in northern Europe between the first Scandinavian raid on England, in AD 793, and ends with the death villa Harald Hardrada in 1066, in a failed attempt to attain the English throne.
Archaeology Equipment: The Tools of the Trade
A photo essay of the tools that archaeologists use during the course of an investigation, before, during and after the excavations.
A photo essay of the tools that archaeologists use during the course of an investigation, before, during and after the excavations.
Viking Raids
Viking raids were a characteristic of the Scandinavian early medieval pirates called the Vikings, particularly during the first 50 years of the Viking Age (~793-850)
Viking raids were a characteristic of the Scandinavian early medieval pirates called the Vikings, particularly during the first 50 years of the Viking Age (~793-850)
Maya Civilization Quiz
A trivia quiz about the Maya civilization: sans serif font tour of chichen itza architecture maya maya resources maya codices
A trivia quiz about the Maya civilization: sans serif font tour of chichen itza architecture maya maya resources maya codices
Popol Vuh
The Popol Vuh, often dubbed the Bible of the Maya, is a colonial document which narrates the creation myth of the Maya Quiché of Guatemala and the Story of the Hero Twins...
The Popol Vuh, often dubbed the Bible of the Maya, is a colonial document which narrates the creation myth of the Maya Quiché of Guatemala and the Story of the Hero Twins...
Wheat Domestication
Wheat was one of the very first crops domesticated by our ancestors, some 10,000 years ago in southeastern Turkey.
Wheat was one of the very first crops domesticated by our ancestors, some 10,000 years ago in southeastern Turkey.
Artifacts Ur's Royal Cemetery
Puabi was the name of a woman buried in one of the richest of the tombs excavated by Woolley at the Royal Cemetery. Her headress is legendary.
Puabi was the name of a woman buried in one of the richest of the tombs excavated by Woolley at the Royal Cemetery. Her headress is legendary.
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.
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu lies on a cloud-draped ridge between the two mountain tops, part of the estate of the Inca king Pachacuti, one of the glories of the ancient past of South America.
Machu Picchu lies on a cloud-draped ridge between the two mountain tops, part of the estate of the Inca king Pachacuti, one of the glories of the ancient past of South America.
Inca Road
The Inca road system (called Capaq Ñan or Gran Ruta Inca) was an essential part of the success of the Inca Empire
The Inca road system (called Capaq Ñan or Gran Ruta Inca) was an essential part of the success of the Inca Empire
Mixed Cropping
Mixed cropping, also known as inter-cropping or co-cultivation, is a type of agriculture that involves planting two or more of plants simultaneously in the same field.
Mixed cropping, also known as inter-cropping or co-cultivation, is a type of agriculture that involves planting two or more of plants simultaneously in the same field.
History of Clovis
Clovis is the name of a city in New Mexico, a prehistoric archaeological site located near Clovis, and the name archaeologists have provided to the people who roamed the Americas between 9,800 and 10,800 RCYBP.
Clovis is the name of a city in New Mexico, a prehistoric archaeological site located near Clovis, and the name archaeologists have provided to the people who roamed the Americas between 9,800 and 10,800 RCYBP.
Kilwa Kisiwani
On a small island off the coast of Tanzania lies the site of Kilwa Kisiwani, also called Kilwa, the most important of about thirty-five trading sites on the Indian Ocean during the 11th through 16th centuries AD.
On a small island off the coast of Tanzania lies the site of Kilwa Kisiwani, also called Kilwa, the most important of about thirty-five trading sites on the Indian Ocean during the 11th through 16th centuries AD.
ArchaeoAstronomy
An interview with David Dearborn, on his research at the interface between astronomy and archaeology.
An interview with David Dearborn, on his research at the interface between astronomy and archaeology.
C3, C4, and CAM Plants
Most plants fall into three groups, based on their chemical makeup: C4, C3, and CAM; archaeologists are particularly interested in C3 and C4 plants. Here's why.
Most plants fall into three groups, based on their chemical makeup: C4, C3, and CAM; archaeologists are particularly interested in C3 and C4 plants. Here's why.
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.
History of Alcohol - Timeline
History of Alcohol - Timeline
History of Alcohol - Timeline
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.
Zhou Dynasty, China
The Zhou Dynasty (also spelled Chou) conquered the Shang rulers and ruled major parts of what is now China for over 700 years (ca 1046-221 BC).
The Zhou Dynasty (also spelled Chou) conquered the Shang rulers and ruled major parts of what is now China for over 700 years (ca 1046-221 BC).
Secrets of the Dead: Caveman Cold Case
The episode of Secrets of the Dead called Caveman Cold Case is an excellent discussion of two Neanderthal cave sites and what archaeologists have learned about our not-so-distant cousins.
The episode of Secrets of the Dead called Caveman Cold Case is an excellent discussion of two Neanderthal cave sites and what archaeologists have learned about our not-so-distant cousins.
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.
History of Rice Part One
Archaeology has traced the history of rice to nearly 12,000 years ago.
Archaeology has traced the history of rice to nearly 12,000 years ago.
Monumental Architecture
Monumental architecture refers to large man-made structures of stone or earth.
Monumental architecture refers to large man-made structures of stone or earth.
Guide to 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.
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.
Nazca
The Nazca (often spelled Nasca in archaeological texts) civilization was located in the Nasca region as defined by the Ica and Grande river drainages, on the southern coast of Peru between about AD 1-750.
The Nazca (often spelled Nasca in archaeological texts) civilization was located in the Nasca region as defined by the Ica and Grande river drainages, on the southern coast of Peru between about AD 1-750.
The Domestication of Pigs
Pigs (Sus scrofa) were definitely domesticated in the Fertile Crescent along with a whole other range of animals and plants. But that's not the only place humans changed wild animals into nicely behaved, edible food crop.
Pigs (Sus scrofa) were definitely domesticated in the Fertile Crescent along with a whole other range of animals and plants. But that's not the only place humans changed wild animals into nicely behaved, edible food crop.
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
Cotton (Gossypium)
Refer to this page to learn more about the origin of cotton domestication and cultivation
Refer to this page to learn more about the origin of cotton domestication and cultivation
Social Organization
Social organization of a group includes how people interact, and archaeologists look for clues to the social organizations in artifact patterns.
Social organization of a group includes how people interact, and archaeologists look for clues to the social organizations in artifact patterns.
Domestication of Maize
Maize is a plant of enormous modern-day economic usefulness, which has a curious domestication history.
Maize is a plant of enormous modern-day economic usefulness, which has a curious domestication history.
Mousterian
The Mousterian industry is an ancient Middle Stone Age method of making stone tools, associated with our hominid relatives the Neanderthals in Europe and both Homo sapiens and Homo neanderthalensis in Africa.
The Mousterian industry is an ancient Middle Stone Age method of making stone tools, associated with our hominid relatives the Neanderthals in Europe and both Homo sapiens and Homo neanderthalensis in Africa.
BCE (or B.C.E.)
: BCE stands for "Before the Common Era" and it is basically equivalent to "BC", except that it doesn't
: BCE stands for "Before the Common Era" and it is basically equivalent to "BC", except that it doesn't
Dust Veil of AD 536
The dust veil of AD 536 was a period of a year to 18 months when the world experienced some kind of calamity, and historic records and dendrochronological records from around the world hold the evidence.
The dust veil of AD 536 was a period of a year to 18 months when the world experienced some kind of calamity, and historic records and dendrochronological records from around the world hold the evidence.
Invention of Pottery
Recent archaeological evidence shows that the oldest ceramics in the world so far were discovered in mainland China, and dated to 20,000 years ago.
Recent archaeological evidence shows that the oldest ceramics in the world so far were discovered in mainland China, and dated to 20,000 years ago.
Tezcatlipoca
Tezcatlipoca was the Aztec god of night, north direction and patron deity of Aztec kings
Tezcatlipoca was the Aztec god of night, north direction and patron deity of Aztec kings
Bering Strait and the Bering L
The Bering Strait is a sea lane between Russia and North America, located over the top of the Bering Land Bridge, that now-submerged portion of the Bering Strait, that once connected the Siberian mainland with North America.
The Bering Strait is a sea lane between Russia and North America, located over the top of the Bering Land Bridge, that now-submerged portion of the Bering Strait, that once connected the Siberian mainland with North America.
Maya Bloodletting Rituals
Bloodletting rituals and sacrifices were a widespread practice among the ancient people of Mesoamerica.
Bloodletting rituals and sacrifices were a widespread practice among the ancient people of Mesoamerica.
African Iron Age
In Africa, unlike the Europe and Asia, the Iron Age is not prefaced by a Bronze or Copper Age, but rather all the metals came at once.
In Africa, unlike the Europe and Asia, the Iron Age is not prefaced by a Bronze or Copper Age, but rather all the metals came at once.
Mammoths
Mammoths and mastodons are both extinct forms of elephant that roamed the world before the end of the Pleistocene period.
Mammoths and mastodons are both extinct forms of elephant that roamed the world before the end of the Pleistocene period.
Mississippian Culture
The Mississippian culture is what archaeologists call the precolumbian horticulturalists and mound builders, who were spread across the American midwest and southeast, between about AD 1000-1550.
The Mississippian culture is what archaeologists call the precolumbian horticulturalists and mound builders, who were spread across the American midwest and southeast, between about AD 1000-1550.
Rosetta Stone
The Rosetta stone is a big hunk of volcanic basalt found near the town of Rosetta, Egypt in 1799, by the French emperor Napoleon's expedition.
The Rosetta stone is a big hunk of volcanic basalt found near the town of Rosetta, Egypt in 1799, by the French emperor Napoleon's expedition.
Mesoamerican Ball Game
The Mesoamerican ball game was an exciting, dangerous game played by most cultures in central America.
The Mesoamerican ball game was an exciting, dangerous game played by most cultures in central America.
Guide to Pre-Clovis
Pre-Clovis is the name archaeologists have given to the oldest and now fairly well-established human occupations of the Americas.
Pre-Clovis is the name archaeologists have given to the oldest and now fairly well-established human occupations of the Americas.
Oasis Theory
The Oasis Theory is a core concept in archaeology, referring to one of the main hypotheses about the origins of agriculture.
The Oasis Theory is a core concept in archaeology, referring to one of the main hypotheses about the origins of agriculture.
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.
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.
Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgari
The common bean comes in a multitude of colors shapes and sizes, and as you've no doubt been told, they're really good for you. They are an American domesticate, and their domestication history is an interesting one...
The common bean comes in a multitude of colors shapes and sizes, and as you've no doubt been told, they're really good for you. They are an American domesticate, and their domestication history is an interesting one...
Tonatiuh
Tonatiuh was the Aztec Sun God, one of the most important deities in Aztec religion
Tonatiuh was the Aztec Sun God, one of the most important deities in Aztec religion
Calpulli
The Calpulli was the basic unit of social organization in the Aztec empire
The Calpulli was the basic unit of social organization in the Aztec empire
Sheep History
The sheep (Ovis aries) is one of the earliest animals ever domesticated, from the mouflon and more than 10,000 years ago.
The sheep (Ovis aries) is one of the earliest animals ever domesticated, from the mouflon and more than 10,000 years ago.
Goat Domestication
Beginning about 10,500-10,800 years ago, Neolithic farmers in the Near East began keeping small herds of goats for their milk, meat, dung, as well as for materials for clothing and building: hair, bone, and sinew.
Beginning about 10,500-10,800 years ago, Neolithic farmers in the Near East began keeping small herds of goats for their milk, meat, dung, as well as for materials for clothing and building: hair, bone, and sinew.
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.
The Ancient Maya or Mayans?
Is it more correct to say the ancient Maya or Mayans? Are you visiting a Maya or a Mayan site? Is it
Is it more correct to say the ancient Maya or Mayans? Are you visiting a Maya or a Mayan site? Is it
Great Zimbabwe (Zimbabwe)
Great Zimbabwe is an important African Iron Age site, one of hundreds of such sites in Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa dated between the 10th and 15th centuries AD.
Great Zimbabwe is an important African Iron Age site, one of hundreds of such sites in Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa dated between the 10th and 15th centuries AD.
Pyramid
A pyramid is one of the earliest form of massive monumental architecture built by humans.
A pyramid is one of the earliest form of massive monumental architecture built by humans.
Easter Island
Easter Island, also known as Rapanui and Isla de Pascua, is a tiny dot of volcanic matter in the South Pacific Ocean, currently owned by Chile. Its story is a microcosm for the devastation brought by humans, and the ability of people to overcome their own mistakes.
Easter Island, also known as Rapanui and Isla de Pascua, is a tiny dot of volcanic matter in the South Pacific Ocean, currently owned by Chile. Its story is a microcosm for the devastation brought by humans, and the ability of people to overcome their own mistakes.
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.
Linear A
Linear A is what archaeologists call the first written language of the Minoan people on the island of Crete, used during the Proto-palatial period (1900-1700 BC). It has yet to be deciphered.
Linear A is what archaeologists call the first written language of the Minoan people on the island of Crete, used during the Proto-palatial period (1900-1700 BC). It has yet to be deciphered.
Guinea Pigs
Guinea pigs are small rodents domesticated about seven thousand years ago in South American Andes mountains primarily for food, and brought to Europe as pets in the 16th century.
Guinea pigs are small rodents domesticated about seven thousand years ago in South American Andes mountains primarily for food, and brought to Europe as pets in the 16th century.
History of Agriculture
The history of farming begins some 12,000 years ago, in the hilly flanks of the Zagros Mountains of southwest Asia
The history of farming begins some 12,000 years ago, in the hilly flanks of the Zagros Mountains of southwest Asia
Otzi the Iceman
Otzi the Iceman - Information about Otzi the Iceman
Otzi the Iceman - Information about Otzi the Iceman
Rulers of Palenque
Known rulers of the Maya civilization city of Palenque, Chiapas, Mexico
Known rulers of the Maya civilization city of Palenque, Chiapas, Mexico
World History Timelines
A collection of timelines for the world history of ancient cultures
A collection of timelines for the world history of ancient cultures
Aztec Weapons and Warfare, the
The macuahuitl is a Nahua term referring to an offensive weapon used by the Aztecs in combat. It is sometimes called a sword even it this tool bears no resemblance with the European sword....
The macuahuitl is a Nahua term referring to an offensive weapon used by the Aztecs in combat. It is sometimes called a sword even it this tool bears no resemblance with the European sword....
Cuzco, Peru
The modern day city of Cuzco in the Andes Mountains of Peru was founded, according to legend, by Manco Capac, the founder of the Incan Civilization.
The modern day city of Cuzco in the Andes Mountains of Peru was founded, according to legend, by Manco Capac, the founder of the Incan Civilization.
Khmer Empire Water Management System
The Khmer Empire, also known as the Angkor civilization, were compelled to manage water through a complex of man-made canals and reservoirs, the result of which was to permanently alter the local hydrology.
The Khmer Empire, also known as the Angkor civilization, were compelled to manage water through a complex of man-made canals and reservoirs, the result of which was to permanently alter the local hydrology.
Mongooses
Mongooses are native to Africa and Asia, but a small group of them are to be found in the southwestern Iberian peninsula. This article discusses how they got there and who brought them.
Mongooses are native to Africa and Asia, but a small group of them are to be found in the southwestern Iberian peninsula. This article discusses how they got there and who brought them.