Archaeology concepts and methods

Archaeology

The Archaeological and Historical Consequences of the U.S. Invasion of Iraq

Like any war, the war waged against Iraq by U.S. forces has resulted in the destruction of more than just military sites. Many of Iraq's cultural sites, including museums, libraries and significant ancient sites have been the victims of destruction.

According to article by National Geographic News, "although U.S. bombs have spared most sites and treasures, some ancient locations have been seriously damaged by recent looting and long-tern neglect" (National Geographic News, 2003). Iraq is of key interest to historians and archaeologists alike and these ancient sites provide a wealth of information about early civilization.

An early tourist guide on Iraq, which was printed in 1982 states "Few countries in the world are as rich in archaeology as Iraq. The Iraq National Museum, with its great, well-organized and carefully labeled collection of archaeological finds is a reflection of this richness (Radio Free Europe, 2003). Today, the museum remains under guard by U.S. military forces to prevent any more looting and pillaging of ancient artifacts. Many statues, paintings and papers have been totally ruined and several of the most precious artifacts are missing.

It is unfortunate that so many of Iraq's cultural sites have been damaged or ruined beyond repair, not only by the bombing by U.S. forces but also because of the looting and rioting that took place following the fall of Saddam Hussein.

The National Geographic Society has made a significant commitment to the recovery and preservation of the world's cultural and historical antiquities," said David Royle, executive producer of Ultimate Explorer and senior vice president of production for National Geographic Television & Film. "At a time when there are fears so much of Iraq's cultural heritage has been looted, this is akin to finding the country's crown jewels. Jason Williams' tenacity on the story of the treasures of Nimrud and National Geographic's resources combined to help authorities solve this mystery. In addition to Jason's group, a number of others representing the Society have been in Iraq during the past month to assist in the assessment and protection of that region's vast archaeological treasures." Williams said, "These are national treasures for Iraq that go to the very heart and soul of the Iraqi people. It is a thrill for me to be involved in their rediscovery and to bring them to the attention of the world" (National Geographic News, 2003)

Throughout the chaotic days of the war, there has been widespread looting of thousands of artifacts that have been stripped from the Iraq Museum and archaeological sites. In many cases, there has been terrible damage to excavation sites that have irrevocably ruined the archaeological and historical records unearthed from these spots. The Iraqi people have suffered a devastating loss of historic treasures. They hold U.S. Force responsible for the destruction of their museum and believe that they should provide recovery aide and help get the stolen artifacts back. But the chances remain slim that these value artifacts will ever be returned to their rightful home and consequently, the Iraq national Museum will never be the same again.

According to National Geographic (2003), "Some of Iraq's most significant sites, such as the ancient Assyrian capital of Nimrud and its gold-filled royal tombs which were uncovered in 1988, show serious signs of stress. Bullet shell casings have been discovered on the ground and slabs from the walls of one of the palaces had been stolen. American soldiers now guard Nimrud."

Other sites have not fared as well. Ninevah bore the scars of sledgehammers in the palace and several holes dug by looters seeking gold and ivory artifacts. At the sites of Khorsabad and Tell Billa, the area was littered with unexploded bombs and abandoned military equipment. The Mosul Museum was not as lucky as its counterparts and was the victim of considerable bombing damage, with several shattered windows, which left its artifacts in full view for looters. Bronze reliefs and inscribed bricks were among the missing.

One site that remained intact was Nippur known as the holy city of ancient Mesopotamia, where scribes went to school to learn to read and write and protected by Iraqi tribal guards (National Geographic News, 2003).

In the capital city of Babylon, U.S. troops have taken over Saddam's palace and use it as a central headquarters. Not far from the palace, the museum lies in ruin and the library has been burned and looted. Both represent more desecration to the cultural foundation of Iraq.