Historical archaeology

This readable introduction to historical archaeology focuses on modern history in all its fascinating regional, cultural, and ethnic diversity. Accessibly covering key methods and concepts, including fundamental theories and principles, the history of the field, and basic definitions. Historical Archaeology also includes a practical look at career prospects for interested readers. Orser discusses central topics of archaeological research such as time and space, survey and excavation methods, and analytical techniques, encouraging readers to consider the possible meanings of artifacts. Drawing on the author's extensive experience as an historical archaeologist, the book's perspective ranges from the local to the global in order to demonstrate the real importance of this subject to our understanding of the world in which we live today. The third edition of this popular textbook has been significantly revised and expanded to reflect recent developments and discoveries in this exciting area of study. Each chapter includes updated case studies that demonstrate the research conducted by professional historical archaeologists. With its engaging approach to the subject, Historical Archaeology continues to be an ideal resource for readers who wish to be introduced to this rapidly expanding global field. Book jacket.

Section I: Foundations of historical archaeology. What is historical archaeology? (Dividing human history ; The roots of today's historical archaeology ; Historical archaeology today ; The goals of historical archaeology ; Site visit : La Isabella, Hispaniola, 1493-1498) ; A brief history of historical archaeology (The important and the famous (1855 to the 1960s) ; Historical archaeology of people and communities (1960s to today) ; Contemporary historical archaeology ; Site visit : Smith's Fort, Bermuda, 1613) ; Culture, history, and archaeological sites (Culture and society ; Cultural systems ; Cultural change ; Using anthropology and history in historical archaeology ; The major site types of historical archaeology ; Site visit : Palmares, Brazil, ca. 1650) ; Time and space (Time in historical archaeology ; Space in historical archaeology ; The link between time and space ; Site visit : Limehouse Porcelain Manufactory, London, 1745-1748) -- Section II: Doing historical archaeology. Site survey and location in historical archaeology (Known sites ; Accidental discoveries ; Finding sites in historical archaeology ; Site visit : Pribilof Islands, Alaska, 1780s) ; Pre-excavation fiel…