An Introduction to Peatland Archaeology and Palaeoenvironments (Studying Scientific Archaeology)

Peatlands are regarded as having exceptional archaeological value, due to the fact the waterlogged conditions of these wetlands can preserve organic remains that are almost entirely lost from the majority of dryland contexts. This is certainly true, although the remarkable preservation of sites and artifacts is just one aspect of their archaeological importance. This book provides an accessible introduction to the ecology and formation processes of peatlands, and to the different archaeological and palaeoenvironmental techniques that have been developed and adapted for the study of these environments. It provides an outline of the major themes and methods and as a guide to other more detailed and technical literature concerning peatland archaeology. The book is aimed at undergraduate and postgraduate students in archaeology, earth sciences and cognate disciplines, but will be useful to professional archaeologists who are looking to develop their expertise in this field. Whilst the assumption is that the reader has little knowledge of peatlands, a general archaeological background is necessary, including some knowledge of techniques and approaches. Table of Contents Introduction 1. Introduction to Formation Processes and Ecology of Peatlands 2. Peatland Archaeology: A Historical Review 3. Archaeological Approaches to Peatlands 4. Palaeoenvironmental Methods and Approaches 5. Case Studies in Peatland Archaeology 6. Integration, Interpretation and Reflection: Themes in Peatland Archaeology 7. Peatlands in the Past, Present and Future: Managing, Promoting and Protecting the Archaeological Record Bibliography