Excavation

Definition

Excavation is the process of systematically uncovering and analyzing buried artifacts, structures, and other material remains from past societies. It is a crucial method in archaeology, allowing researchers to gather data on historical cultures, including their architecture, societal organization, and economic practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Excavation techniques at Great Zimbabwe revealed impressive stone structures, including the Great Enclosure and the Hill Complex, showcasing the architectural sophistication of its society.
2. Excavations have unearthed artifacts such as pottery, tools, and gold items, shedding light on the economic activities and trade networks of Great Zimbabwe.
3. Excavators carefully document each layer of soil removed to maintain a record of the chronological order of findings, which is essential for understanding the historical context.
4. The findings from excavations at Great Zimbabwe have led researchers to debate its role as a center of trade and governance in Southern Africa during the medieval period.
5. Excavation results contributed to the understanding of social hierarchy within Great Zimbabwe, as different areas of the site were associated with various social classes.

Review Questions

• How does excavation contribute to our understanding of the architectural advancements seen at Great Zimbabwe?
  • Excavation allows archaeologists to uncover the extensive stone structures at Great Zimbabwe, such as the impressive walls and buildings that showcase advanced construction techniques. By analyzing these remains, researchers can draw conclusions about the engineering skills, materials used, and architectural styles prevalent in this society. The data gathered from excavations reveals not just how these structures were built but also their significance in the cultural identity and social organization of the people who lived there.
• In what ways do excavated artifacts from Great Zimbabwe inform us about its economy and trade relationships?
  • The artifacts unearthed during excavations, such as pottery, tools, and decorative items made from gold and ivory, provide valuable insights into the economic practices of Great Zimbabwe. They suggest that this society was engaged in trade with distant regions, as some materials found are not native to the area. Analyzing these artifacts helps historians understand the trade routes used by Great Zimbabweans and their relationships with neighboring communities or distant civilizations.
• Evaluate the impact of excavation on our interpretation of social structures within Great Zimbabwe and its significance in regional history.
  • Excavation has greatly enhanced our interpretation of social structures within Great Zimbabwe by revealing spatial organization at the site. Different areas designated for leaders versus commoners indicate a stratified society with defined roles. This knowledge shifts our understanding of Great Zimbabwe's significance in regional history by highlighting it as a complex civilization that was not merely a trading hub but also a center for political power and social organization in Southern Africa during its peak.

Related terms

Archaeology: The scientific study of human history and prehistory through the excavation and analysis of artifacts, structures, and other physical remains.

Stratigraphy: The study of rock layers and layering (strata) that is used in excavation to understand the chronological sequence of human activity at a site.

Artifacts: Objects made or used by humans, typically discovered during excavation, that provide insights into the culture and practices of past societies.