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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
The Sphinx
The Sphinx, Old Kingdom, Egypt
The Sphinx, Old Kingdom, Egypt
The Taj Mahal (India)
The New Seven Wonders: Taj Mahal (India)
The New Seven Wonders: Taj Mahal (India)
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.
Inca Empire Study Guide
Important facts about the economy, architecture and religion of the inca empire
Important facts about the economy, architecture and religion of the inca empire
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Hampi: Capital of the Vijaynagara Empire
Hampi Ruins, India
Hampi Ruins, India
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.
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
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.
Archaeology Quiz: Tutankhamun's Tomb
Archaeology Quiz: Tutankhamun's Tomb: christopher townsend puzzles and games archaeology games puzzles tutankhamun s tomb
Archaeology Quiz: Tutankhamun's Tomb: christopher townsend puzzles and games archaeology games puzzles tutankhamun s tomb
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
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Radiocarbon Dating
Radiocarbon dating uses the amount of Carbon 14 (C14) available in living creatures as a measuring stick.
Radiocarbon dating uses the amount of Carbon 14 (C14) available in living creatures as a measuring stick.
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.
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'.
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
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
Uluburun
Uluburun is the name of a Late Bronze Age ship, wrecked off the coast of Turkey near Kas in the 14th century BC and about 50 meters below the water's surface and six miles from the coast.
Uluburun is the name of a Late Bronze Age ship, wrecked off the coast of Turkey near Kas in the 14th century BC and about 50 meters below the water's surface and six miles from the coast.
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.
Human Migration
The evolution of modern Homo sapiens took place someplace in east Africa, about 200,000 years ago. We stayed in Africa for some 100,000 to 150,000 years, before venturing out into the world.
The evolution of modern Homo sapiens took place someplace in east Africa, about 200,000 years ago. We stayed in Africa for some 100,000 to 150,000 years, before venturing out into the world.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Monumental Architecture
Monumental architecture, at an archaeological site, refers to large man-made structures of stone or earth.
Monumental architecture, at an archaeological site, refers to large man-made structures of stone or earth.
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.
Stonehenge (United Kingdom)
Stonehenge is a megalithic rock monument of 150 enormous stones set in a purposeful circular pattern, located on the Salisbury Plain of southern England, the main portion of it built about 2000 BC.
Stonehenge is a megalithic rock monument of 150 enormous stones set in a purposeful circular pattern, located on the Salisbury Plain of southern England, the main portion of it built about 2000 BC.
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.
History of Clovis
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
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)
Spectacles and Spectators
Like many pre-modern societies, the Classic period Maya (AD 250-900 AD) used ritual and ceremony performed by the rulers or elites to appease gods, repeat historical events, and prepare for the future. But not all ceremonies were secret rituals; in fact, many were public rituals, theatrical performances and dances played in public arenas to unite communities and express political power relationships.
Like many pre-modern societies, the Classic period Maya (AD 250-900 AD) used ritual and ceremony performed by the rulers or elites to appease gods, repeat historical events, and prepare for the future. But not all ceremonies were secret rituals; in fact, many were public rituals, theatrical performances and dances played in public arenas to unite communities and express political power relationships.
Paso de la Amada, Chiapas
The oldest Mesoamerican ballcourt ever discovered is at Paso de la Amada (Mexico).
The oldest Mesoamerican ballcourt ever discovered is at Paso de la Amada (Mexico).
Invention of Pottery
Ceramics--the production of vessels and figurines using fired clay--was invented nearly 13,000 years ago in Japan. An introduction to the sites and evidence of the invention of pottery
Ceramics--the production of vessels and figurines using fired clay--was invented nearly 13,000 years ago in Japan. An introduction to the sites and evidence of the invention of pottery
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.
Cultural Ecology
Cultural Ecology is an anthropological theory put forward by Julian Steward, that considers adaptation to environment as the paramount driver in cultural change.
Cultural Ecology is an anthropological theory put forward by Julian Steward, that considers adaptation to environment as the paramount driver in cultural change.
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.
Goats
Goats were first domesticated between about 11,000 and 10,000 years ago in central Asia.
Goats were first domesticated between about 11,000 and 10,000 years ago in central Asia.
Scenes from Paradise
Roman mosaic of a lion, from the Brooklyn Museum's planned exhibition of Roman mosaics from a Jewish synagogue in Tunisia in the latter days of the Roman empire.
Roman mosaic of a lion, from the Brooklyn Museum's planned exhibition of Roman mosaics from a Jewish synagogue in Tunisia in the latter days of the Roman empire.
Skraelings
Skraelings is the term used by the Viking settlers of Greenland and the North American continent to describe their direct competition for land in those regions, and there is some active debate among archaeologists about who those people might have been.
Skraelings is the term used by the Viking settlers of Greenland and the North American continent to describe their direct competition for land in those regions, and there is some active debate among archaeologists about who those people might have been.
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.
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.
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.
Plant Domestication
A table of dates, places, and links to further detailed information about the domestication of plants.
A table of dates, places, and links to further detailed information about the domestication of plants.
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.
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.
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
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?
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.
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 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.
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
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
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.
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.
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 (Peru)
The New Seven Wonders: Machu Picchu (Peru)
The New Seven Wonders: Machu Picchu (Peru)
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.
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.
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.
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.
Top 10 Things to Know about the Aztecs
Short list of the main facts and aspects of Aztec culture
Short list of the main facts and aspects of Aztec culture
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.
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.
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).
Sacred Cenote (Well of the Sacrifices)
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Aztec Empire
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.
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
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
Moai Heads on a Hillside
Moai Heads on a Hillside, Easter Island
Moai Heads on a Hillside, Easter Island
Mesolithic
The Mesolithic period falls between the Paleolithic and Neolithic.
The Mesolithic period falls between the Paleolithic and Neolithic.
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.
Nalanda University Ruins
Nalanda University Ruins, India
Nalanda University Ruins, India
El Castillo (Kukulcan or the Castle)
El Castillo (Kukulcan or the Castle), Chichen Itza, Mexico
El Castillo (Kukulcan or the Castle), Chichen Itza, 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
Oracle Bones
Oracle bones are a type of artifact found in archaeological sites from the Shang Dynasty in China.
Oracle bones are a type of artifact found in archaeological sites from the Shang Dynasty in China.
Lascaux Cave
Lascaux Cave is a rockshelter in the Dordogne Valley of France with fabulous cave paintings, dated to between 15,000 and 17,000 years ago. Sadly, it is no longer open to the public.
Lascaux Cave is a rockshelter in the Dordogne Valley of France with fabulous cave paintings, dated to between 15,000 and 17,000 years ago. Sadly, it is no longer open to the public.
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,
Axum's Obelisks
Axum's Obelisks
Axum's Obelisks
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.
Marshalltown Ball Court
A humongous deep oval circle in a soybean field in Iowa leaves a mystified impression on a handful of archaeologists.
A humongous deep oval circle in a soybean field in Iowa leaves a mystified impression on a handful of archaeologists.
Chauvet Cave (France)
Chauvet Cave is one of the earliest rock art sites in the world, dating to the Aurignacian period in France, about 30,000-32,000 years ago; although its date has been questioned recently.
Chauvet Cave is one of the earliest rock art sites in the world, dating to the Aurignacian period in France, about 30,000-32,000 years ago; although its date has been questioned recently.
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
Otzi the Iceman
Otzi the Iceman - Information about Otzi the Iceman
Otzi the Iceman - Information about Otzi the Iceman
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.
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.
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
Horticulture
The archaeological use of the term horticulture is used to describe a subsistence strategy between hunting and gathering and full fledged agriculture.
The archaeological use of the term horticulture is used to describe a subsistence strategy between hunting and gathering and full fledged agriculture.
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
Abri Castanet (France)
The rockshelter in the Dordogne region of France called Abri Castanet contains a wealth of stone and bone tools, as well as items of personal decoration and rock art, dated to the Early and Middle Aurignacian period of the Upper Paleolithic.
The rockshelter in the Dordogne region of France called Abri Castanet contains a wealth of stone and bone tools, as well as items of personal decoration and rock art, dated to the Early and Middle Aurignacian period of the Upper Paleolithic.
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.
Synagogues
A synagogue is, of course, a religious structure that can be identified with the Jewish faith; the earliest synagogues may have developed as early the Babylonian exile period of the 6th century BC.
A synagogue is, of course, a religious structure that can be identified with the Jewish faith; the earliest synagogues may have developed as early the Babylonian exile period of the 6th century BC.
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.
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.
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.
Goat Domestication
Domestic goats (Capra hircus) were among the first domesticated animals. 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.
Domestic goats (Capra hircus) were among the first domesticated animals. 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.
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.
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.
Glass History
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.
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, and why it may be only a matter of time before the remaining evidence is eroded away.
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, and why it may be only a matter of time before the remaining evidence is eroded away.
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 Roman Colosseum (Italy)
New Seven Wonders: The Roman Colosseum (Italy)
New Seven Wonders: The Roman Colosseum (Italy)
Bering Strait and Beringia
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
House of the Faun
The floor plan of the House of the Faun illustrates its immensity--it covers an area of over 30,000 square feet. The size is comparable to eastern Hellenistic palaces of the same era--and Alexis Christensen has argued that the house was designed to imitate palaces like Delos.
The floor plan of the House of the Faun illustrates its immensity--it covers an area of over 30,000 square feet. The size is comparable to eastern Hellenistic palaces of the same era--and Alexis Christensen has argued that the house was designed to imitate palaces like Delos.
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.
Megafauna Extinctions
At the end of the last ice age (ca 15,000-10,000 years ago), 85 percent of the large mammals (called megafauna) went extinct.
At the end of the last ice age (ca 15,000-10,000 years ago), 85 percent of the large mammals (called megafauna) went extinct.
GGSA by Program Focus
Looking for a specific degree to study archaeology? Here's the place to start your search.
Looking for a specific degree to study archaeology? Here's the place to start your search.
Tenochtitlan (Mexico)
The capital city of the Aztec civilization, Tenochtitlan is now the metropolis of Mexico City.
The capital city of the Aztec civilization, Tenochtitlan is now the metropolis of Mexico City.
Aztec Origins and the Foundin
This page describes the mythical and archaeological origins of the Aztec people, and the founding of their capital city of Tenochtitlán
This page describes the mythical and archaeological origins of the Aztec people, and the founding of their capital city of Tenochtitlán
Hittites
The Hittite empire ruled much of Anatolia--roughly what today is Turkey--between about 1340-1200 BC.
The Hittite empire ruled much of Anatolia--roughly what today is Turkey--between about 1340-1200 BC.
A Walking Tour of Olympia
Lighting the Olympic Flame: the Olympic Torch Relay begins at this altar in the Temple of Hera at Olympia.
Lighting the Olympic Flame: the Olympic Torch Relay begins at this altar in the Temple of Hera at Olympia.
El 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
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.
Stone Ring at Ball Court
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
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.
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?
BC (or B.C.)
The term B.C. is used by nearly everyone in the United States to mean dates in the Julian Calendar before the birth of Christ, or at least before the date once thought to be that of Christ's birth (the year 0).
The term B.C. is used by nearly everyone in the United States to mean dates in the Julian Calendar before the birth of Christ, or at least before the date once thought to be that of Christ's birth (the year 0).
The Parthenon, Greece
The archaeological site called the Parthenon was a monument to the Greek Goddess Athena, built during the 4th century BC.
The archaeological site called the Parthenon was a monument to the Greek Goddess Athena, built during the 4th century BC.
Petra (Jordan)
New Seven Wonders: Petra (Jordan)
New Seven Wonders: Petra (Jordan)
Hisarlik (Turkey)
Hisarlik is the modern name for the ancient site of Troy, located in what is now Turkey.
Hisarlik is the modern name for the ancient site of Troy, located in what is now Turkey.
Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania
Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania is an ancient hominid archaeological site in Tanzania, excavated by the Leakeys in the mid-1950s.
Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania is an ancient hominid archaeological site in Tanzania, excavated by the Leakeys in the mid-1950s.