Underwater and Maritime Archaeology in Latin America and the Caribbean

The waters of Latin America and the Caribbean are rich with archaeological sites including coastal settlements defensive forts freshwater sources fishing-related activities navigational aids anchorages harbours ports shipbuilding sites shipwrecks and survivor camps. Tragically treasure-hunting has had a deep impact on these maritime cultural resources especially on shipwrecks. In the last 20 years archaeologists have been fighting the battle against these treasure hunters in an attempt to preserve these resources as a source of cultural heritage rather than allow them to be viewed solely as a means for financial reward. Case studies written primarily by Latin American and Caribbean archaeologists demonstrate exciting and cutting edge research conservation site preservation and interpretation. As a result this groundbreaking book documents the emerging research interests of maritime archaeologists in Latin America and the Caribbean.