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Have you ever wondered why we study the past? Is it necessary or not? Archaeology is the study of the human past and the things left behind and the pre-historic eras. Archaeology helps us connect with our ancestors and understand our origins. It teaches us about ancient cultural diversity, every little piece of evidence that shows how our world was, how different groups of people lived, how they reacted and how they adapted over time. Archaeology encompasses the magnificence of well-known wonders like Stonehenge, the Terracotta Army, the Pyramids, the Rosetta Stone, ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs and Machu Picchu, to amazing discoveries.
The first archaeologist was "King Nabonidus". He was the king of Babylon in the 6th century BCE. While rebuilding the temple, artifacts of King Naram-Sin, who ruled 3,200 years ago, were discovered. There is a lot written about archaeology. Even a thousand pages would be less. But I am going to tell you now, when an archaeologist excavates an archaeological site, what method is used. And what are the main steps followed.
First, the archaeologist and his team conduct a survey of the site. Before digging, the archaeologists record data about the area. Using a dumpy level machine, they measure the height of the ground. Then, using electromagnetic radiation and the help of ground-penetrating radar, they can find artifacts up to 15m (49ft) below the surface of the ground, thus giving the team members information about where to dig. The archaeologist then creates a square grid of the excavation site, dividing the ground into smaller squares to make it easier to record where each object was found.
The topsoil is then excavated at that site. The entire excavation is done with 100% accuracy. Therefore, no direct large tools are used during the excavation. After examining the topsoil, larger tools are used only if the excavation is more than four inches deep and to remove hard soil.
An archaeologist makes a 100% effort to recover any find in its original state. Some artifacts, such as ancient skeletons, can be extremely fragile. To safely remove these remains, small tools such as brushes and dental picks are used to remove thin layers of soil without damaging the find. Photographs are taken of the location of any object from all angles before removing it from the ground. The artifacts that come out of the ground are then carefully stored. These artifacts are placed in transparent plastic bags. Which are labeled with a code and number. This number gives all the information to those who analyze them later about where they are, what their condition is.
Then the artifacts that came out of the ground are researched at all levels. For example, the color of the soil that is found with the artifacts can tell scientists a lot about its composition and history. Archaeologists use the Munsell Color Chart. Which is often used to compare soil samples. Each specific item is given a specific name based on its color, shape and strength.
Archaeologists take great care for small items. Because some skeletal remains, very small items hidden in the ground are separated by a large sieve called a sifting screen. Every second of the work done by an archaeologist, from the excavation of any artifact to its safe location, is recorded at a high level. Photographs from every angle, field notes, video recordings, all this is done carefully and safely. Because once the artifacts are moved from the site, the archaeologist relies only on the photographs and details taken during the excavation.
Today's archaeologists do not only excavate the ground. But they also work to protect heritage sites from damage and destruction. They believe that these historical treasures must be preserved for future generations. Because archaeology is more than just uncovering old things, we need to engage with archaeology to understand that and understand history. If you want any special information about archaeology, then email me, I will increase your knowledge in the next issue.
-- Bhautik Thummar
