Conclusion

Abstract

This chapter summarizes the points discussed over the course of the book to argue for the importance of an archaeological consideration of outsiders. It argues that African archaeology will benefit from a consideration of the idea of outsiderhood based on two basically pragmatic reasons. Firstly, because it will offer us improved understanding given that outsiders were indubitably important in the past, and secondly because the time is ripe to look at the question. It suggests concrete directions which West African archaeology — and archaeology more generally, perhaps — can take to improve our understanding of past people and their identity.