This book provides a short, readable introduction to historical archaeology, which 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 which 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.

Table of Contents

Section I: Foundations of Historical Archaeology

Chapter 1 What Is Historical Archaeology?

Chapter 2 A Brief History of Historical Archaeology

Chapter 3 Culture, History, and Archaeological Sites

Chapter 4 Time and Space

Section II: Doing Historical Archaeology

Chapter 5 Site Survey and Location in Historical Archaeology

Chapter 6 Pre-Excavation Fieldwork: Documents, Interviews, Buildings

Chapter 7 Archaeological Fieldwork: Field and Laboratory

Chapter 8 Artifacts and Interpretation in Historical Archaeology

Chapter 9 Historical Archaeology and Cultural Resource Management

Section III: Interpretation in Historical Archaeology

Chapter 10 Theory in Historical Archaeology

Chapter 11 The Historical Archaeology of Individuals and Groups

Chapter 12 Global Historical Archaeology and Modern-World Archaeology

Chapter 13 Historical Archaeology and The Past Today

Guide to Further Reading

Glossary