Using Archaeology to understand the past, present, and future of climate change Flashcards
What is the “Camp Fire” in California known for?
The “Camp Fire” is the most destructive wildfire in California history, resulting in the death of 86 people.
What role does archaeology play in understanding disasters and climate change?
Archaeologists study the impact of disasters, helping us understand the choices people made and how communities recover and adapt to such events.
What do the fire-blackened pots in the image represent?
The pots are a reminder of the owners’ time spent in Ethiopia in the 1960s, symbolizing meaningful family history despite the fire’s destruction.
What did archaeologists study in post-Katrina New Orleans?
Archaeologist Shannon Dawdy studied the recovery in New Orleans, focusing on the emotional, political, and material impacts of the disaster on the African-American Lower 9th Ward.
What new issue has arisen due to California wildfires?
The wildfires have led to a new housing crisis, particularly affecting vulnerable populations in communities like Paradise.
How have archaeologists studied climate change in the past?
Archaeologists have studied paleoclimatic and paleoenvironmental archives, using data like ice cores and sediment cores to understand the impacts of past climate changes.
What environmental changes are affecting the Lake Titicaca region in Bolivia?
The region is experiencing rapid environmental change, including the disappearance of glaciers, droughts, and other climate challenges impacting both urban and rural populations.
How do archaeologists use the past to warn about future climate challenges?
Archaeologists, like Ken Sassaman, study ancient populations’ responses to climate change and use that knowledge to inform modern policy and future responses to climate crises.
How have Indigenous peoples in California historically responded to fire and climate change?
Indigenous peoples in California have long used fire as a tool to maintain productive landscapes, which is now informing modern fire management and policy discussions.
What is the connection between archaeology and future climate crises?
Archaeologists help us understand past responses to climate events and offer insights that can guide modern decision-making and policy to address future climate disasters.
