ancient history AT1

What is archaeology?

The study of human history by digging up old sites and looking at tools, bones, and other remains.

What is an artifact?

Any object made or modified by humans, especially tools, weapons, or ornaments.

What is an ecofact?

Organic material found at an archaeological site that has archaeological significance, such as plant or animal remains.

What is a feature in archaeology?

A non-portable archaeological remain, such as a burial.

What does stratigraphy study?

The study of rock layers and their relationship to geological time, helping to determine the age of artifacts found in different layers.

What is excavation?

The systematic digging and recording of an archaeological site.

What is a survey in archaeology?

The process of locating and mapping archaeological sites.

What is remote sensing?

Techniques like ground-penetrating radar and aerial photography used to detect subsurface features without excavation.

What are dating methods in archaeology?

Techniques used to determine the age of artifacts or sites, such as radiocarbon dating and potassium-argon dating.

How did early archaeology differ from late 19th-early 20th century methods?

Early archaeology often involved treasure hunting with little systematic recording, while later methods introduced scientific techniques and detailed documentation.

What significant developments occurred in mid 20th century archaeology?

The development of 'new archaeology' that emphasized scientific methods, hypothesis testing, and quantitative data analysis.

What is the focus of post-processual archaeology?

Interpretation of meaning and context, recognizing the subjectivity in archaeological interpretation.

How do site surveys using radar contribute to archaeology?

They allow archaeologists to locate buried features without extensive digging, thus preserving sites.

What does forensic examination reveal in archaeology?

It helps analyze human remains to determine age, sex, cause of death, and other characteristics of past populations.

What was significant about Howard Carter's excavation methods?

Carter was meticulous, taking detailed notes and photographs, and developed new techniques for preserving fragile artifacts.

What do artifacts in Tutankhamun's tomb reveal about everyday life in Ancient Egypt?

They show craftsmanship in furniture, fashion in clothing and jewelry, and forms of entertainment with games and musical instruments.

What does the golden throne from Tutankhamun's tomb signify?

It signifies the wealth and power of the pharaoh, decorated with intricate carvings and precious materials.

What does the presence of chariots in Tutankhamun's tomb indicate?

It highlights the importance of chariots in warfare and transportation during ancient Egypt.

What do the daggers found in Tutankhamun's tomb demonstrate?

They demonstrate advanced metalworking skills and trade networks in ancient Egypt.

What purpose does the antechamber serve in Tutankhamun's tomb?

It is the first room entered, containing various objects intended for the afterlife.

What evidence reveals the condition of Tutankhamun's remains?

The remains were poorly preserved and showed signs of fractures indicating possible injuries or illnesses.

What significance do canopic jars have in mummification?

They held the internal organs of the pharaoh, underscoring the importance of preserving the body for the afterlife.

What do wall paintings in Tutankhamun's tomb depict?

Scenes of the pharaoh's journey to the afterlife and rituals related to this process.

What ethical issues arise from the examination of Tutankhamun's tomb?

Concerns include disturbance of the dead, ownership and repatriation debates, and balancing conservation with research needs.

What are some problems historians face when studying Tutankhamun's tomb?

Issues include tomb robberies that led to displacement of objects, poor preservation of artifacts, and debates over interpretations.