Archaeology as Political Action

This book develops a theory and framework to describe how archaeology might contribute to a more humane world. Recognizing that archaeology is an inherently political activity, Randall H. McGuire builds on the history of archaeological theory and Marxist dialectical theory to point out how archaeologists might use their craft to evaluate interpretations of the real world, construct meaningful histories for communities, and challenge the persistent legacies of colonialism and class struggle. McGuire bases his discussion on his own extensive fieldwork in the United States and Mexico, citing fascinating case studies to develop the idea of archaeology as a class-based endeavor. He describes in detail the Trincheras Tradition Project in Sonora, Mexico and the "double colonialism" that confronts U.S. archaeologists working on the international border, as well as his work on the Colorado Coal Field War project. The result is a lively and engaging manifesto for building true community collaboration and achieving praxis in archaeology.