It evolved into a much more systematic discipline in the late 19th century and became a widely used tool for historical and anthropological research in the 20th century.

The goal of archaeology is to understand how and why human behavior has changed over time. Archaeologists search for patterns in the evolution of significant cultural events such as the development of farming, the emergence of cities, or the collapse of major civilizations for clues of why these events occurred.

Not only is it important for historical research, it also has a great deal of community and economic value. Archaeology has the potential to provide new information on the human past, solidify one’s ties to their social or national heritage, and provide economic means to locations all across the world.

Archaeology proper began with an interest in the Greeks and Romans and first developed in 18th-century Italy with the excavations of the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Archaeology originated in 15th and 16th century Europe with the popularity of collecting and Humanism, a type of rational philosophy that held art in high esteem. The inquisitive elite of the Renaissance collected antiquities from ancient Greece and Rome, considering them pieces of art more than historical artifacts.

1a : a usually simple object (such as a tool or ornament) showing human workmanship or modification as distinguished from a natural object especially : an object remaining from a particular period caves containing prehistoric artifacts.

Artifacts include tools, clothing, and decorations made by people. They provide essential clues for researchers studying ancient cultures. material remains of a culture, such as tools, clothing, or food. to expose by digging.

Elements of Culture

• Artifacts. Artifacts are the physical things that are found that have particular symbolism for a culture.
• Stories, histories, myths, legends, jokes.
• Rituals, rites, ceremonies, celebrations.
• Heroes.
• Symbols and symbolic action.
• Beliefs, assumptions and mental models.
• Attitudes.
• Rules, norms, ethical codes, values.

The elements of the statue of Liberty I believe are most important are the tablet inscription, torch and broken shackles at her feet. The choice of medium does impact my experience. The tablet inscription is the date and year when the US became an independent nation.

Artefacts and symbols are like triggers. They remind people who are part of a culture of its rules, beliefs and meaning (in good ways as well as bad). They also encourage certain behaviours.

Examples of cultural artifacts include pottery, weaponry, artwork, tools, and manuscripts/writing.

Objects and artifacts reflect culture in powerful ways. Primary sources are sources which were created during the time period being examined and contain firsthand information. Objects of cultural significance are often considered primary sources.

Schein divided an organization’s culture into three distinct levels: artifacts, values, and assumptions.

Begin with a quick culture assessment by following these steps:

1. Step 1: Review your stories. The stories that you tell provide clues to your existing culture.
2. Step 2: Check on how your employees view you!
3. Step 3: Observe behaviors.
4. Step 4: Discuss how people interpret the company values.

One of the basic tenets of culture is that it consists of levels and sublevels. It is useful to think about culture in terms of five basic levels: national, regional, organizational, team, and individual. Within each of these levels are tangible and intangible sublevels of culture.