Select one of the people described below - Junior Cycle History - Question A - 2010

An archaeologist plays a crucial role in the exploration and understanding of historical and prehistorical sites. Their work begins with the planning stage, which involves choosing the site based on previous research and significance. This careful selection ensures that the dig will yield valuable artifacts and information.

During the dig, the archaeologist engages in meticulous processes such as excavation, which requires them to carefully remove soil layers while documenting the context of each layer. They systematically record artifacts found, which may include tools, pottery, or remnants of structures. This documentation is essential for later analysis).

For dating objects uncovered during the dig, archaeologists typically use methods such as radiocarbon dating and stratigraphy. Radiocarbon dating measures the decay of carbon-14 in organic materials, providing age estimates. Stratigraphy is based on the principle that deeper layers are older than those above, allowing archaeologists to establish a chronological sequence of the findings.

Ultimately, the archaeologist prepares a detailed report summarizing the findings, which includes illustrations and photographs of the artifacts, along with analyses of their significance and context.