ABSTRACT

This controversial book is a survey of how relationships between indigenous peoples and the archaeological establishment have got into difficulty, and a crucial pointer to how to move forward from this point.

With lucid appraisals of key debates such as NAGPRA, Kennewick and the repatriation of Tasmanian artefacts, Laurajane Smith dissects the nature and consequences of this clash of cultures.

Smith explores how indigenous communities in the USA and Australia have confronted the pre-eminence of archaeological theory and discourse in the way the material remains of their past are cared for and controlled, and how this has challenged traditional archaeological thought and practice.

Essential reading for all those concerned with developing a just and equal dialogue between the two parties, and the role of archaeology in the research and management of their heritage.

chapter 1|15 pages

INTRODUCTION

chapter 2|17 pages

The cultural politics of identity: defining the problem

Defining the social problem

chapter 4|23 pages

ARCHAEOLOGY AND THE CONTEXT OF GOVERNANCE

Expertise and the state

chapter 5|24 pages

Archaeological stewardship: the rise of cultural resource management and the ‘scientific professsional’ archaeologist

The rise of cultural resource management and the ‘scientific professional’ archaeologist

chapter 8|18 pages

NAGPRA AND KENNEWICK

Contesting archaeological governance in America

chapter 9|21 pages

The ‘death of archaeology’

Contesting archaeological governance in Australia

chapter 10|9 pages

CONCLUSION