Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA)

Definition

The Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA) is a federal law enacted in 1979 that aims to protect archaeological resources on public and Native American lands. This legislation was designed to prevent the unauthorized excavation, removal, and destruction of archaeological sites, while also promoting the responsible study and preservation of these resources. ARPA reflects a shift towards greater ethical considerations in archaeological research, particularly in post-colonial contexts where the rights and cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples are increasingly acknowledged and respected.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. ARPA imposes penalties for the unauthorized excavation or removal of archaeological resources, including fines and imprisonment.
2. The law specifically applies to archaeological sites located on federal and tribal lands, emphasizing the need for permits for excavation.
3. ARPA promotes collaboration between archaeologists and Native American tribes, recognizing their cultural connection to archaeological resources.
4. The act has been crucial in raising public awareness about the importance of preserving archaeological sites as part of our shared cultural heritage.
5. Enforcement of ARPA relies on both federal and state agencies, which work together to protect archaeological resources from looting and destruction.

Review Questions

• How does the Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA) promote ethical considerations in the field of archaeology?
  • ARPA promotes ethical considerations by setting legal standards for the protection of archaeological resources on public lands. It ensures that any excavation or research conducted is done with proper permits and respect for the cultural significance of the sites. This law also encourages archaeologists to collaborate with Indigenous peoples, acknowledging their rights and perspectives regarding their ancestral heritage.
• Discuss the relationship between ARPA and NAGPRA in terms of protecting archaeological resources and Indigenous rights.
  • ARPA and NAGPRA are complementary laws that work together to protect archaeological resources while respecting Indigenous rights. While ARPA focuses on preventing unauthorized excavation of archaeological sites on public lands, NAGPRA specifically addresses the return of Native American human remains and cultural items to tribes. Both laws emphasize the importance of collaboration between archaeologists and Indigenous communities, fostering a more ethical approach to archaeology.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of ARPA in safeguarding archaeological resources from looting and vandalism within the context of post-colonial archaeology.
  • The effectiveness of ARPA in safeguarding archaeological resources can be evaluated through its impact on reducing looting and vandalism, particularly on federally protected lands. While it has led to increased awareness and legal repercussions for offenders, challenges remain in enforcement due to limited resources and varying commitment levels among agencies. In a post-colonial context, ARPA’s focus on collaboration with Indigenous communities enhances its effectiveness by promoting shared stewardship over culturally significant sites, though ongoing efforts are needed to adapt to changing dynamics in heritage protection.

Related terms

Cultural Resource Management (CRM): A field of archaeology focused on the preservation and management of cultural resources, often in compliance with laws like ARPA.

NAGPRA: The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, which addresses the rights of Native American tribes regarding the repatriation of ancestral remains and cultural items.

Site Stewardship: A practice that involves volunteers or organizations taking responsibility for monitoring and protecting archaeological sites from vandalism and degradation.