Archaeological survey

Definition

An archaeological survey is a systematic examination of the landscape to locate and assess archaeological sites. It involves walking over a defined area to collect data on the distribution of artifacts, features, and structures in the landscape, often before excavation takes place. This process helps archaeologists understand the spatial relationships of sites and their context within the broader historical landscape.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Archaeological surveys can be conducted using various methods, including pedestrian surveys, where archaeologists walk over the landscape, and subsurface surveys, which involve digging test pits or trenches.
2. Surveys help establish the distribution of archaeological materials across a landscape, which can indicate settlement patterns, trade routes, and resource use by past cultures.
3. In the context of ancient China, archaeological surveys have been crucial in locating significant sites related to dynasties and cultural developments, including those associated with oracle bone script.
4. The results of an archaeological survey inform future excavation strategies by highlighting areas of potential significance and guiding resource allocation.
5. Surveys can also contribute to heritage management by identifying sites at risk from development or environmental changes, leading to preservation efforts.

Review Questions

• How does an archaeological survey contribute to our understanding of ancient cultures?
  • An archaeological survey contributes to our understanding of ancient cultures by providing data on the distribution and context of artifacts and sites. By mapping these findings across a landscape, archaeologists can infer patterns of settlement, resource usage, and cultural practices. This information is essential for constructing narratives about how past societies lived and interacted with their environment.
• Discuss the significance of conducting surveys in relation to oracle bone script and its historical context.
  • Conducting surveys in relation to oracle bone script is significant because it helps archaeologists locate sites where these inscribed artifacts were used and stored. By examining areas associated with oracle bone inscriptions, researchers can better understand the social and political dynamics of the Shang dynasty. Surveys that reveal concentrations of oracle bones may point to ritual practices and decision-making processes that were integral to the society's governance.
• Evaluate the impact of modern technology on archaeological surveys and how it affects our interpretation of ancient Chinese history.
  • Modern technology has greatly impacted archaeological surveys by enhancing the methods used to detect and analyze sites. Techniques such as remote sensing allow archaeologists to identify potential locations without extensive ground disturbance. This technological advancement not only speeds up the surveying process but also aids in interpreting ancient Chinese history by uncovering previously hidden settlements or structures that may relate to significant cultural developments. The integration of technology enables a more comprehensive understanding of how ancient peoples organized their environments and interacted with their surroundings.

Related terms

Site: A specific location where evidence of past human activity has been preserved, including artifacts, features, and structures.

Remote Sensing: A method used in archaeology to detect and analyze archaeological sites from a distance, often using technologies like satellite imagery or aerial photography.

Fieldwork: The practical work conducted by archaeologists outside of a laboratory setting, including surveys, excavations, and site documentation.