Routledge Underwater and Maritime Archaeology in Latin America and the Caribbean (One World Archaeology)

The waters of Latin America and the Caribbean are rich with archaeological sites, including coastal settlements, defensive forts, freshwater sources, fishing-related activities, navigational aids, anchorages, harbours, ports, shipbuilding sites, shipwrecks and survivor camps. Tragically, treasure-hunting has had a deep impact on these maritime cultural resources, especially on shipwrecks. In the last 20 years, archaeologists have been fighting the battle against these treasure hunters in an attempt to preserve these resources as a source of cultural heritage, rather than allow them to be viewed solely as a means for financial reward. Case studies written primarily by Latin American and Caribbean archaeologists demonstrate exciting and cutting edge research, conservation, site preservation, and interpretation. As a result, this groundbreaking book documents the emerging research interests of maritime archaeologists in Latin America and the Caribbean. Review "Being the first English language volume dedicated to the practice of 'maritime' archaeology in Latin America and the Caribbean this book should be required reading on university courses around the world. Readership should come not only from those focused on regional or specialist studies, but more widely from anyone, student or professional alike, involved in cultural heritage management, archaeological ethics and law, and public involvement in and the politics of archaeology--pretty much everyone."--Joe Flatman, Conservation and Management of Archaeological Sites "The editors are to be applauded for organizing the session and producing this volume. The principal value of publishing conference proceedings is to preserve a permanent account of the research presented and to provide access to an audience that was not in attendance. As a record of the maturation of an emerging subfield of archaeology, this volume represents an important step forward in the practice of underwater archaeology in Latin America and the Caribbean." --Erika Laanela, New West Indian Guide "This book is the result of a long struggle for the protection and study of the cultural heritage in Latin American and Caribbean countries...this book is a fresh look at the state of underwater and maritime archaeology in Latin America and the Caribbean and an invaluable contribution for the editors' express goal: bringing the countries, governments, professionals, and publics together." --Filipe Castro, Journal of Anthropological Research About the Author Margaret E. Leshikar-Denton serves with the Cayman Islands National Museum. Initiatives include research exhibitions, a shipwreck register, a maritime heritage trail, shipwreck preserves, and advocating legislation. She has worked in the Caribbean, Mexico, United States, Spain and Turkey. Chair of the SHA UNESCO Committee, and a research associate with Institute of Nautical Archaeology, she also serves on the ICOMOS-ICUCH and ACUA. Pilar Luna Erreguerena is head of the underwater archaeology area of the National Institute of Anthropology and History and is the pioneer of Mexican underwater archaeology. She has directed several projects in marine and continental waters. She is a member of the SHA UNESCO Committee, ICOMOS-ICUCH, ICOMOS México and ACUA. No BIO on File