Egypt's Ancient Roots Deserve Recognition, Say Archaeologists
A long-overdue shift is underway in Egyptology, as Western scholars are being urged to give greater credit to the Egyptians who played a crucial role in uncovering their country's rich ancient heritage.
In an effort to right historical wrongs, experts like Peter Der Manuelian, Barbara Bell Professor of Egyptology at Harvard University, are championing the recognition of Egyptian foremen and researchers who assisted on expeditions and kept meticulous diaries in Arabic. These unsung heroes spent years documenting and excavating sites across Egypt, yet their contributions have often been overlooked.
Der Manuelian's call for change is a significant shift in an industry where Western archaeologists have historically dominated the field. By acknowledging the invaluable work of Egyptian collaborators, researchers hope to create a more inclusive narrative about Egypt's ancient past.
The professor notes that these Egyptian researchers were not simply assistants but were rather key contributors who helped shape our understanding of Egyptian history and culture. As such, their recognition is long overdue – "the credit where the credit is due" is finally being given.
A long-overdue shift is underway in Egyptology, as Western scholars are being urged to give greater credit to the Egyptians who played a crucial role in uncovering their country's rich ancient heritage.
In an effort to right historical wrongs, experts like Peter Der Manuelian, Barbara Bell Professor of Egyptology at Harvard University, are championing the recognition of Egyptian foremen and researchers who assisted on expeditions and kept meticulous diaries in Arabic. These unsung heroes spent years documenting and excavating sites across Egypt, yet their contributions have often been overlooked.
Der Manuelian's call for change is a significant shift in an industry where Western archaeologists have historically dominated the field. By acknowledging the invaluable work of Egyptian collaborators, researchers hope to create a more inclusive narrative about Egypt's ancient past.
The professor notes that these Egyptian researchers were not simply assistants but were rather key contributors who helped shape our understanding of Egyptian history and culture. As such, their recognition is long overdue – "the credit where the credit is due" is finally being given.