A Millennium of Cultural Contact

A Millennium of Cultural Contact

Publisher
Left Coast Press
Published
2011
Pages
327
ISBN-13
9781598744927
Format
print
Language
English

Alistair Paterson has written a comprehensive textbook detailing the millennium of cultural contact between European societies and those of the rest of the world. Beginning with t…

Book Summary
A Millennium of Cultural Contact by Alistair Paterson is a comprehensive textbook examining 1,000 years of interaction between European and indigenous societies worldwide. Using archaeological evidence and case studies from Greenland to Australia, it explores patterns of exploration, colonization, resistance, and cultural exchange. Ideal for courses in historical archaeology, world history, and social change.
This book is not available
Best buying and renting options — totals include estimated shipping when seller shipping is unavailable
Store Condition Deals & Coupons Price Est. Shipping Total Buy
About A Millennium of Cultural Contact

Alistair Paterson's A Millennium of Cultural Contact offers a sweeping yet detailed textbook account of the interactions between European societies and indigenous peoples across the globe over the past thousand years. Beginning with Norse encounters in Greenland, the book uses archaeological evidence and regional case studies to analyze how European groups influenced, overcame, or were resisted by populations in Africa, the Americas, East Asia, Oceania, and Australia. Paterson highlights the wide variations in exploration, conquest, colonization, avoidance, and resistance at different contact points. The student-friendly treatment makes it an accessible resource for understanding the complex history and archaeology of cultural contact, suitable for courses in historical archaeology, world history, and social change.

Who should read A Millennium of Cultural Contact?

This book is essential for undergraduate and graduate students in archaeology, history, and anthropology, particularly those enrolled in courses on historical archaeology, world history, or social change. It also serves instructors seeking a comprehensive, case-study-based textbook. Additionally, anyone interested in the global dynamics of cultural contact, colonialism, and indigenous-European relations will find it valuable for its archaeological perspective and broad comparative approach.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • ✓ Comprehensive global coverage spanning a millennium of cultural contact
  • ✓ Uses archaeological evidence and specific case studies to illustrate patterns
  • ✓ Student-friendly writing style with clear regional overviews
  • ✓ Balances breadth with detailed analysis of unique contact situations
  • ✓ Suitable for multiple courses in archaeology, history, and social change
Cons
  • ✗ May be too detailed for casual readers seeking a brief overview
  • ✗ Focus on archaeology might limit appeal to those preferring purely historical narratives
  • ✗ Some regions receive less attention than others, potentially uneven coverage
  • ✗ Lacks extensive primary source excerpts or firsthand accounts
  • ✗ Could benefit from more visual aids such as maps and diagrams
Frequently asked questions
Is this book suitable for undergraduate courses?
Yes, it is designed as a student-friendly textbook for courses in historical archaeology, world history, and social change, with clear case studies and regional overviews.
Does the book focus only on European colonization?
While centered on European-indigenous contact, it covers a wide range of interactions including exploration, resistance, and avoidance, and includes regions such as East Asia and Oceania.
What time period does the book cover?
It covers approximately the last millennium, starting with Norse encounters in Greenland and extending to modern times.
Is archaeological evidence the main source?
Yes, the book relies largely on archaeological evidence to detail specific contact points and patterns, though it also incorporates historical sources.
Are there illustrations or maps?
The book includes some maps and figures, but reviewers note it could benefit from more visual aids; it is primarily text-based.

At Windsorbooks, we compare prices from trusted sellers so you can buy, rent, or sell textbooks at the best total price — shipping included.

As an Amazon Associate, Windsorbooks.com may earn a small commission on qualifying purchases.