The Archarology of Colonialism

This collection of essays critically examines the material impacts of colonialism across various cultures, as explored in The Archaeology of Colonialism.

In The Archaeology of Colonialism, the complex interplay between colonialism and various human communities is meticulously explored through a collection of nine insightful essays. These essays, penned by experts in archaeology, anthropology, art history, and history, delve into the lasting material consequences of colonialist practices. The authors examine a wide range of contexts, from the fourth millennium B.C. to the nineteenth century A.D., covering diverse cultures that span the ancient Mediterranean, Oceania, West Africa, and Peru. The book begins with an engaging essay by Claire Lyons and John Papadopoulos, setting the stage for the thematic discussions that follow.

Each chapter in The Archaeology of Colonialism offers a unique perspective on how colonialism has shaped identities and practices across different societies. For instance, Gil Stein highlights the role of archaeological evidence in uncovering identities linked to ancient writing systems and social rituals. Adolfo Dominguez investigates the profound Greek influence on Iberian art and language, while Kenneth Kelly addresses critical issues related to the slave trade and resource exploitation. The book further explores the challenges of interpreting archaeological remnants, as illustrated by Peter van Dommelen's study of Sardinia under Carthaginian and Roman rule.

The second part of the book shifts focus to ideologies, with Irad Malkin examining the relationship between myth and identity in Greek Etruscan interactions. Nicholas Thomas analyzes the impact of colonialism on clothing styles in Samoan and Tahitian communities, emphasizing the transformative power of material culture. Tom Cummins discusses urban planning and kinship in sixteenth-century Andean societies, while Stacey Jordan and Carmel Schrire provide a comprehensive model for integrating various forms of evidence related to the Dutch East India Company at the Cape of Good Hope. Through these essays, The Archaeology of Colonialism presents a rich tapestry of insights into the enduring legacies of colonial practices.