The Other Archaeologists: The Ignorant Villagers and the Colonial Archaeology of Taxila in the Late Nineteenth Century

Colonial archaeology at Taxila, Pakistan, relied heavily on local villagers' knowledge and labor during the late 19th century, yet these contributions were systematically ignored or maligned by prominent figures like Alexander Cunningham. This study reveals that ordinary villagers—often overlooked in historical accounts—played a crucial role in shaping archaeological discoveries in South Asia. By reappraising their involvement, the research challenges the narrative of colonial archaeology and highlights the need for modern engagement with local communities to enrich contemporary fieldwork. The findings underscore a critical gap in historical recognition and advocate for a more inclusive approach to archaeological research.

Shaheen, I. (2022). The Other Archaeologists: The Ignorant Villagers and the Colonial Archaeology of Taxila in the Late Nineteenth Century. South Asian Studies, 38(2), 231–241. https://doi.org/10.1080/02666030.2022.2137981