Footprints in the Soil

Synopsis

The history of science discipline is contributing valuable knowledge of the culture of soil understanding, of the conditions in society that fostered the ideas, and of why they developed in certain ways. This book is about the progressive "footprints” made by scientists in the soil. It contains chapters chosen from important topics in the development of soil science, and tells the story of the people and the exciting ideas that contributed to our present understanding of soils. Initiated by discussions within the Soil Science Society of America and the International Union of Soil Sciences, this book uniquely illustrates the significance of soils to our society. It is planned for soils students, for various scientific disciplines, and for members of the public who show an increasing interest in soil. This book allows us to answer the questions: "How do we know what we know about soils?” and "How did one step or idea lead to the next one?”The chapters are written by an international group of authors, each with special interests, bound together by the central theme of soils and how we came to our present understanding of soils. Each concentrate on soil knowledge in the western world and draw primarily on written accounts available in English and European languages. Academics, graduate students, researchers and practitioners will gain new insights from these studies of how ideas in soil science and understanding of uses of soils developed.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Footprints of Farmers Past

This chapter introduces the fundamentals of soil archaeology, a field that studies the traces left by agricultural activities in the landscape. It discusses the different types of soil features that can provide clues to past farming practices, such as furrows, ridges, and terraces.

Example: In the UK, archaeologists have discovered prehistoric field systems by analyzing the pattern of soil marks visible from aerial photographs. These field systems provide insights into the land use and farming methods of early agricultural communities.

Chapter 2: The Scars of the Plow

This chapter examines the specific evidence for plowing, the most fundamental agricultural activity. It describes the different types of plows and how they create distinctive soil features. It also discusses the factors that influence the visibility and preservation of plowing marks, such as soil type and climate.

Example: At the Ashdown Farm Settlement in England, archaeologists have uncovered a series of parallel furrows that indicate the use of a heavy moldboard plow during the Roman period. This suggests that the Romans were employing advanced plowing techniques to cultivate their fields.

Chapter 3: The Fields of the Future

This chapter explores the application of soil archaeology to contemporary agriculture. It discusses how soil features can help farmers understand the history and potential of their land, guiding their management decisions. It also describes the use of soil archaeology to identify and protect valuable agricultural heritage sites.

Example: In California, soil archaeologists have worked with farmers to identify ancient irrigation systems that can be rehabilitated to improve water conservation. This collaboration demonstrates the practical benefits of using archaeological knowledge to enhance agricultural practices.

Chapter 4: The Soil as an Archive of Human Activity

This chapter emphasizes the importance of soil as a record of human activity, not just in agriculture but in all aspects of life. It discusses the range of artifacts and ecofacts that can be found in soil deposits, providing insights into past diets, technologies, and environmental conditions.

Example: At the Bronze Age settlement of Meare in England, archaeologists have found charred seeds and animal bones in the soil that provide evidence of the crops and livestock raised by the inhabitants. These remains offer a glimpse into the subsistence economy and dietary habits of an ancient community.

Chapter 5: Soil Archaeology and the Human Legacy

This chapter explores the broader implications of soil archaeology for our understanding of human history and the environment. It discusses how soil features can reveal patterns of land use, settlement, and population dynamics over time. It also emphasizes the importance of preserving soil archaeology sites to safeguard our collective heritage.

Example: In the Amazon Basin, soil archaeologists have documented vast networks of pre-Columbian causeways and raised fields that were used to support extensive agricultural systems. This research sheds light on the ingenuity and environmental resilience of ancient civilizations in the region.

Chapter 6: Footprints in the Soil as a Source of Knowledge and Inspiration

This final chapter summarizes the key contributions of soil archaeology to our understanding of past and present agricultural practices. It emphasizes the importance of soil as a valuable resource for research and education, and encourages readers to explore the rich history and potential of the soils they inhabit.

Example: Soil archaeology programs in schools and universities are engaging students in the study of their local landscapes, fostering an appreciation for the interconnectedness of human history and the environment. By uncovering the footprints of farmers past, we gain invaluable insights into our own place in the world and the challenges and opportunities facing agriculture today.