Of rather recent vintage in the United States, historical archaeology is a rapidly growing discipline that has achieved some spectacular successes. Historical archaeologists study documents, but they also study material culture, which often leads to alternative questions and interpretations. Historical archaeology seeks to provide information and insights that neither of its parent disciplines can provide by themselves.
Well-known archaeologist Barbara Little has written a primer for this emerging field. In it she covers the key questions posed by historical archaeology and the ethical and political concerns they raise. Little imparts case studies of important projects like Jamestown, Virginia; Mission San Luis, Florida; and the Garbage Project to illustrate her points.
Historical Archaeology is a fine introduction to the field of study that relates to public education, issues of justice, and our understanding of the past. —Mark Michel
