In the Beginning describes the basic methods and theoretical approaches of archaeology. This is a book about fundamental principles written in a clear, flowing style, with minimal use of technical jargon, which approaches archaeology from a global perspective. Starting with a broad-based introduction to the field, this book surveys the highlights of archaeology’s colorful history, then covers the basics of preservation, dating the past, and the context of archaeological finds. Descriptions of field surveys, including the latest remote-sensing methods, excavation, and artifact analysis lead into the study of ancient environments, landscapes and settlement patterns, and the people of the past. Two chapters cover cultural resource management, public archaeology, and the important role of archaeology in contemporary society. There is also a chapter on archaeology as a potential career. In the Beginning takes the reader on an evenly balanced journey through today’s archaeology. This well-illustrated account, with its numerous boxes and sidebars, is laced with interesting, and sometimes entertaining, examples of archaeological research from all parts of the world. This classic textbook of archaeological method and theory has been in print for nearly 50 years and is used in many countries around the world. It is aimed at introductory students in archaeology and anthropology taking survey courses on archaeology, as well as more advanced readers.

Governmental guidelines have forced a dramatic change in the practice of archaeological surveying in recent decades. In response to public and private development, surveying is needed to accurately inventory the cultural resources of a region and provide guidance for their preservation and management. Greg White and Tom King provide a handy introduction to students, field novices, and land managers on the strategies, methods, and logic of contemporary survey work. In addition to providing the legal and historical context for this endeavor the book provides a heavily illustrated, practical guide to conducting a survey to help beginners understand how it works in practice. This volume is perfect for an archaeological methods class, field school, or reference collection.

During 2009, the Giza Plateau Mapping Project carried out excavations at two sites as part of its ongoing research program: 1) the settlement connected to the Khentkawes Monument on the Giza Plateau and 2) the nearby town, Heit el-Ghurab (aka Lost City of the Pyramids). The 2009 work yielded some important discoveries such as evidence that the 4th Dynasty Khentkawes Town was in fact occupied into the 5th Dynasty with reoccupation later, probably in the 6th Dynasty. The major discovery was the remains of a previously unknown valley complex off the east end of the Khentkawes Town made up of corridors, ramps, and stairs descending into a depression that may prove to be a harbor. This collection of papers by archaeologists and specialists details the results of the excavations and additional work carried out in 2009. The book is well illustrated with abundant maps and photographs, along with large foldout maps and isometric drawings.