The history of digital methods in archeology (1951-1999)

Abstract

The first digital applications in archeology emerged more than 50 years ago. The immense potential of digital methods and specialist applications in archeology was first recognized by Brainerd1 and Robinson2 in 1951, the French researcher Ihm3 and Italian researchers Gardin and Garelli4 in 1958-1959. In the United States, digital computation methods were first applied in archeological research by James Deetz in 19605. Digital techniques were first used for statistical analyses, classification of moveable historic objects and heritage assets, analyses of settlement networks and geometric analyses of historic monuments associated with archeological documentation6. At the time, most archeologists regarded computers are enigmatic machines that were used only by scientists and mathematicians, and digital methods were treated with considerable suspicion or even hostility. In 1973, six articles discussing computer applications in archeology were published in Stafford7. Annual meetings dedicated to “Computer Applications in Archeology” have been held since 1974. The conferences were attended by small groups of pioneers and enthusiasts who were keen on popularizing digital methods and dedicated software applications in archeology. The conferences had several goals: to provide a communication platform for archeologists, mathematicians and computer experts, to promote interdisciplinary communication, to provide support for archeologists working in the field, and to develop digital methods.