Why are artifacts important?

Artifacts refer to objects created or utilized by humans in the past. These can vary from essential tools to intricate structures and offer valuable insights into people's lives in earlier times. Artifacts can reveal numerous details about the culture, beliefs, practices, and social and economic status of specific groups of people.

Artifacts can provide valuable information about the people who lived before us, particularly in their design and construction. For instance, a piece of ancient pottery can offer insights into the technology and techniques utilized during its creation. The shape, size, and decoration can also indicate cultural significance and intended function. Similarly, looking at architectural materials can also shed light on what was accessible during that period and the builders' proficiency level.

Material culture can provide insight into the beliefs and practices of a society. Religious artifacts like statues or icons can indicate which gods or goddesses were worshipped by a specific group. Additionally, artifacts like grave goods or tomb decorations can reveal the burial customs of the society.

Artifacts can offer valuable insights into a society's material wealth and social status. For example, extravagant jewelry or high-end clothing may indicate that the society was affluent or which groups in society held a high social position. Similarly, tools used for agriculture or industry can provide significant information about society's economy and technological advancement.

Aside from physical objects, written documents like letters and records are also essential sources of information about the past. They provide us with firsthand descriptions of various aspects of life, such as politics, religion, and daily activities, which is why archaeologists rely heavily on archival information in addition to material culture.

Artifacts play a crucial role in comprehending past societies as they provide tangible evidence that enables researchers to gain accurate insight into how people lived in different times and places. By closely examining these objects with an unbiased approach, we learn about the methods used and the reasons behind them, which ultimately enhances our understanding of history.