History Term Paper On A Very Significant Role Of Archaeology

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Archaeology Major Paper
Archeology plays a very significant role as far as revealing evidence of past life and past activities is concerned. The field is majorly concerned with the discovery of artifacts and features from archeological sites that may be vital in understanding historical happenings in that place or the types of human activities during that time. Considering this, it is therefore important that one understands the proper methods to be used in locating archeological sites especially before any invasive actions are taken that could destroy the site. In the present case, four site study methods will be used to locate archeological sites in the described area. These include Desk Top Surveys, surface surveys, aerial surveys and geophysical and geochemical surveys. However depending on the time given for the investigation, the resources provided and the geographical structure of an area, there could be additional methods involved in locating these archaeological sites. Some of these are walking within the area, dredging or quarrying. This paper explores and focuses on the four renaissance surveys or site study methods, the types of sites and finally highlights possible recommendations in case archaeological sites are discovered in an area. Overall, the paper indicates that investing in archeology through the preservation of archeological sites is a worthy cause that should be embraced by all. This will largely help in the preservation of world cultures and human practices throughout time.
The first site study method that would be used is the Desk Top survey method. As the name suggests, this method involves studying an area from an office rather than investigating it physically. Since not much is known about the piece of land, it is necessary to start with a preliminary site investigation that will give detailed information that is specific to that particular site. This will be necessary in taking any precautions when doing the physical survey. With this method, it is possible to study the site through the hints and references provided in form of old maps, literature about the site, archaeological records of the past, pictorial records and historical documents. According to Grant et al (pg. 8), studying several early maps on a given area can give some reliable information relating to the ways that buildings or a piece of land has changed over time in terms of structure or use respectively. Maps can also provide information about forgotten sites through revealing the individuals or organizations that previously managed and owned the pieces of land under investigation. An access to legal records such as wills can come in handy in giving a hint about what the land or building in question was used for. A visit to the museum can also enable one to access the needed information (Barghi). Pictures, engravings or paintings found in travelogues and books can all serve to provide a guide about the land under archaeological investigation and therefore these too will be used to know whether the land is an archaeological site or not. Additionally, in this method, the local and national records concerning the exploration sites available in the area can be useful in discovering any fea...