archeology

How do we know
about Ancient Egypt
(Archeology?)

Background Information

How do we know about ancient cultures that were around several thousand years ago? Much of our information about these ancient cultures comes from scientists called Archeologists. Archeologists examine materials from the past to give us a clearer picture of what life was like.

Archeologists use state-of-the-art scientific methods (Dendronchronology (tree ring dating,) thermoluminescense, cat scans, x-rays, remote control cameras, and more) and some old fashion methods (digging, questioning native people, and more) to look for ancient materials. Archeologists look for artifacts such as tools, weapons, letters, clothing, jewelry, buildings, and streets. Artifacts can add to our understanding of the ancient culture. For instance, we can find about personal details, as in a letter from a Roman mother to her soldier son telling him she was sending him underwear and socks. They also look for ecofacts such as plants and animals. Ecofacts give archeologists a better picture of the environment, diet, and cooking methods of the ancient culture. Archeologists search for human bodies. Bones and teeth give us a good look at the how long people lived, what they ate, diseases, injuries, and medical attention that the people may have had. Also, rock paintings and carvings give clues about the appearance and dress of the people, as well as showing people at work, houses, boats, and even games that children play.
Are archeologists always right? No, they are not. Sometimes they run into a language that can't be deciphered (figured out) or read myths, legends, or history that are contradicting or mixed up. But, by careful examination, looking for patterns, and comparing evidence they do their best to give us a clear accurate picture of life in ancient times.

Links

Famous Archeologists and their Work

Howard Carter Explores Kig Tut's Tomb
Dr. Robert Schoch Explores the Sphinx
The Pharoah's Tomb
Theban Mapping Project
Gaurdian's Egypt (Click on "Cool Digs")
Sir Grafton Elliot Smith
Thor Heyerdahl

Great Archeology Sites

What Does an Archeologist Do?
Epigraphy
Where do you Start to Dig?
Where do you Dig?
Leave No Stone Unturned
Interpreting your Evidence
Learning From Mummies
Theban Tomb Publication Project
Underwater Archeology  (Video Clips)
Alexandria's Submerged Monuments
A Virtual Egyptian Dig
Study of Egyptian Pottery
CT-Scan of a Mummy
The Dig (Mark Lehner (Famous Archeologist))
Mark Lehner (Famous Archeologist) Interview
Genetic Archeology

Created: June 24, 1998
Updated: June 27, 2003

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