People and place: Don Henson explains the importance of archaeology in today's social and political environment. (Today's History).

REMAINS OF THE PAST are all around us; we connect with recent times through the passage of our own lives, our parents and grand-parents; the past is constantly used as a reference point by politicians and others; and it is also a fascinating other world that many wish to explore. Yet, we also live at a time when the past seems to be under threat from the headlong rush towards a modern future. Those who study it past need to restate its importance for future generations.

Fortunately, we have powerful allies who wish us well: the public. Enthusiasm for the past is unabated. ...

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