Archaeological Theory and the Politics of Cultural Heritage

<p>This controversial book is a survey of how relationships between indigenous peoples and the archaeological establishment have got into difficulty and a crucial pointer to how to move forward from this point.</p><p>With lucid appraisals of key debates such as NAGPRA Kennewick and the repatriation of Tasmanian artefacts Laurajane Smith dissects the nature and consequences of this clash of cultures.</p><p>Smith explores how indigenous communities in the USA and Australia have confronted the pre-eminence of archaeological theory and discourse in the way the material remains of their past are cared for and controlled and how this has challenged traditional archaeological thought and practice.</p><p>Essential reading for all those concerned with developing a just and equal dialogue between the two parties and the role of archaeology in the research and management of their heritage.</p>