Question

Define material culture and artifacts. Give some examples of how archeologists can use material culture to understand the lives of past populations beyond just describing the object or material elements.

Answer 1

Material culture refers to objects made and used by humans in a group context, and archaeologists can use it to understand various aspects of past populations.

Step-by-step explanation:

Material culture refers to objects made and used by humans in a group context. These objects, known as artifacts, can provide valuable insights into the lives of past populations beyond their physical descriptions. Archaeologists can use material culture to understand topics such as technology, social practices, and ideas of ancient peoples. For example, the study of ancient tools can reveal information about hunting or gathering practices, while studying pottery can provide insight into social and trade networks.