Historical Archaeology Knowledge Quiz

Explanation
Archaeologists typically dig square-shaped holes during their excavations. This shape allows them to create a systematic grid pattern, ensuring that each area is thoroughly examined and documented. The square shape also helps in maintaining straight edges and precise measurements, which are crucial for accurately recording the location and depth of artifacts or features found during the dig. Additionally, the square shape facilitates easier mapping and analysis of the site, aiding in the interpretation of the archaeological remains.

Explanation
Gastro Maspero is the correct answer because he was an archaeologist who discovered the unwrapped mummy known as unknown man E.

Explanation
Otzi the iceman is the correct answer for the name of the oldest known natural human mummy. Otzi, also known as the Similaun man, is a well-preserved mummy of a man who lived around 3,300 BCE. He was discovered in the Italian Alps in 1991 and is considered one of the most significant archaeological finds. Otzi's remains have provided valuable insights into the life, health, and culture of prehistoric humans.

Explanation
During the time of the plague, Europeans believed that the corpses of plague victims could rise from the dead and feed on the shrouds that covered them. These "shroud eaters" were associated with vampiric characteristics, as vampires were believed to be undead beings that fed on the blood or life force of the living. Therefore, the correct answer is vampires.

Explanation
In 2003, a new human species called Homo Floresiensis was discovered on the Indonesian island of Flores. This species, commonly known as "the hobbit," is characterized by its small stature, measuring only about 3 feet 6 inches tall. The discovery of Homo Floresiensis challenged previous beliefs about human evolution and provided new insights into the diversity of human ancestors.

Explanation
The Rosetta Stone is the correct answer because it was indeed found by French soldiers in 1799 while rebuilding a fort in Egypt. The stone is famous for its inscription in three different scripts: Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs, Demotic script, and Ancient Greek. This discovery was crucial in deciphering hieroglyphs, as it provided the key to understanding the ancient Egyptian writing system. The Rosetta Stone is now displayed at the British Museum in London and is considered one of the most important archaeological artifacts in the world.

Explanation
Archaeologists use the term "midden" to describe a garbage dump from the past. A midden is essentially a deposit of domestic waste, including discarded food remains, broken pottery, and other artifacts, that accumulates over time. These deposits provide valuable insights into the daily lives and habits of past civilizations, as they can reveal information about diet, consumption patterns, and cultural practices.

Explanation
The discovery of 100 babies was made in the city of Ashkelon in Israel.

Explanation
The Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania is significant because it has provided evidence of the earliest human races. It is a paleoanthropological site where important discoveries of early hominin fossils and stone tools have been made. The fossils found in this area have helped scientists understand the evolution and behavior of early humans. Therefore, Tanzania is the correct answer for this question.

Explanation
The Grauballe man was found preserved in a bog in Denmark in 1952.