Peter Garlake (1934–2011), Great Zimbabwe and the politics of the past in Zimbabwe

Peter Garlake's influential work on Great Zimbabwe highlighted the complex interplay between archaeology and national identity in Zimbabwe. His research underscored how the monument's interpretation has been shaped by political narratives, particularly during and after the country's independence. By analyzing historical accounts and archaeological evidence, Garlake revealed that Great Zimbabwe was not merely a prehistoric settlement but a symbol deeply intertwined with Zimbabwean nationalism. His approach combined thorough archival research with on-site investigations, challenging earlier colonial-era interpretations that marginalized its significance. This work remains pivotal in understanding the monument's cultural and political dimensions.

Pikirayi, I. (2012). Peter Garlake (1934–2011), Great Zimbabwe and the politics of the past in Zimbabwe. Azania: Archaeological Research in Africa, 47(2), 223–225. https://doi.org/10.1080/0067270x.2012.682779