Uncovering Identity in Mortuary Analysis: Community-Sensitive Methods for Identifying Group Affiliation in Historical Cemeteries

Uncovering Identity in Mortuary Analysis: Community-Sensitive Methods for Identifying Group Affiliation in Historical Cemeteries

Edited by Michael Heilen

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This volume addresses the complex challenges of identifying group affiliation—including ethnicity, religion, social status, and national origin—from mortuary remains in historical cemeteries. Drawing on case studies from across the American Southwest, the contributors present community-sensitive methods that balance the needs of scientific inquiry with respect for descendant communities. Topics include osteological analysis, material culture studies, archival research, and the ethical dimensions of working with human remains from diverse historical populations.