ANTH 333 - Local and Global Indigenous Archaeologies

Colonial perspectives about hierarchies of human worth and worldviews shaped the creation of archaeology, and modern archaeologists are grappling with this legacy. This unit encourages students to explore the impacts of colonialism on the discipline and consider how archaeologists are taking steps to decolonize their methods and theories locally and globally. In focusing on both the global legacies of colonialism and the continued socio-political movements of Indigenous people, this class will encourage a broad perspective on Indigenous archaeologies through the use of place-based and theoretical discussions. This course expands on foundational archaeological concepts and key theoretical approaches of Indigenous scholars from across the globe. As part of this course, students will be asked to recognize the impacts of colonialism and imperialism and how Indigenous peoples enact sovereignty and self-determination. Students will lead class activities based on relevant case studies and archaeological sites in addition to creating written or podcast-style reflections based on weekly readings.

Unit(s): 1
Group Distribution Requirement(s): Distribution Group II
Prerequisite(s): ANTH 201 or ANTH 211
Instructional Method: Conference
Grading Mode: Letter grading (A-F)
Group Distribution Learning Outcome(s):

Evaluate data and/or sources.
Analyze institutions, formations, languages, structures, or processes, whether social, political, religious, economic, cultural, intellectual or other.
Think in sophisticated ways about causation, social and/or historical change, human cognition, or the relationship between individuals and society, or engage with social, political, religious or economic theory in other areas.