Archaeology as an Official Heritage Practice and Community Negotiations since Colonialism

Abstract

Drawing from the writings and actions of colonial officials, archaeological explorers and professionals, and state heritage actors in travelogues and archaeological reports and policies, this chapter outlines official archaeological heritage discourses during the Colonial and Independence Periods. During these periods, archaeology focused almost exclusively on tangible forms of Ancient Maya culture and history and legitimized archaeological expertise and colonial and state power to manage archaeological heritage. However, even with the earliest archaeological expeditions in Belize, descendant and local communities responded to and resisted archaeological engagements with Maya heritage while maintaining cultural connections with ancient cities and objects. Independence Period foreign archaeologists and state actors promoted the institutionalization of archaeology to ensure national control and reinforce expert authority and emphasized the political and economic potential of Ancient Maya heritage. Though Belizean involvement in heritage management increased, state interests continued to privilege scientific foci on Ancient Maya cities and objects over community interests and needs.