Archaeological Resources Protection Act

Definition

The Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA) is a federal law enacted in 1979 aimed at protecting archaeological resources on public and Indian lands. It establishes penalties for the unauthorized excavation, removal, or alteration of these resources and promotes responsible stewardship of archaeological sites, especially in contexts impacted by military installations and colonial power dynamics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. ARPA aims to safeguard archaeological resources from looting and vandalism, especially on lands affected by military activities or colonial exploitation.
2. The act mandates that any archaeological work on public lands must be conducted by qualified individuals under permits issued by relevant authorities.
3. Violations of ARPA can lead to significant fines and criminal charges, highlighting the importance of protecting archaeological heritage.
4. The act encourages collaboration between government agencies, Native American tribes, and local communities to promote awareness and stewardship of archaeological resources.
5. ARPA also provides a framework for documenting and preserving archaeological sites that may be threatened by development or military exercises.

Review Questions

• How does the Archaeological Resources Protection Act contribute to the preservation of archaeological sites affected by military installations?
  • The Archaeological Resources Protection Act plays a crucial role in preserving archaeological sites that may be threatened by military installations by imposing strict penalties for unauthorized excavation and alteration. It ensures that any archaeological work conducted on public lands, including military properties, is done responsibly and with proper oversight. By requiring permits for such activities, ARPA helps protect cultural heritage while allowing for necessary military operations to proceed with minimal disruption to significant archaeological resources.
• What are the implications of the Archaeological Resources Protection Act for the management of cultural resources on federal lands, particularly in relation to colonial power dynamics?
  • The Archaeological Resources Protection Act has significant implications for managing cultural resources on federal lands, as it recognizes the importance of protecting sites that reflect both indigenous heritage and colonial histories. By providing legal frameworks for safeguarding these resources, ARPA addresses the legacy of colonial power dynamics that often resulted in the erasure or destruction of cultural heritage. The act promotes a more inclusive approach to cultural resource management that respects indigenous rights and recognizes their connection to the land.
• Evaluate how the Archaeological Resources Protection Act intersects with contemporary issues regarding the stewardship of indigenous heritage and military land use.
  • The Archaeological Resources Protection Act intersects with contemporary issues surrounding the stewardship of indigenous heritage and military land use by highlighting the need for a balance between national security interests and cultural preservation. As military operations often take place on lands that hold significant historical and cultural value for Native American tribes, ARPA emphasizes responsible management practices that consider these perspectives. This intersection prompts ongoing discussions about appropriate land use policies, collaborative stewardship efforts, and the necessity for legal protections that honor indigenous rights while facilitating military readiness.

Related terms

National Historic Preservation Act:

A law enacted in 1966 to preserve historical and archaeological sites in the United States, establishing a national register of historic places and promoting the protection of cultural resources.

Cultural Resource Management: A professional practice focused on the preservation and management of cultural resources, including archaeological sites, historic buildings, and landscapes.

Federal Lands Policy and Management Act: A federal law that governs the administration of public lands and resources, ensuring that land management agencies consider the protection of cultural resources in their planning and decision-making.