California Archaeology

California archaeology is the study of the state's past peoples through the careful examination of artifacts, sites, and environmental evidence. It aims to understand how Indigenous cultures lived, adapted, and interacted with their landscapes over thousands of years. This involves excavating and analyzing tools, pottery, art, and structures, as well as reconstructing ancient environments. California’s archaeological record reveals rich diverse histories, from the prehistoric-era Native societies to historic periods influenced by explorers, settlers, and modern development. The field helps preserve cultural heritage and informs understanding of human adaptation and cultural change in one of North America’s most ecologically and culturally diverse regions.