An Archaeology of Sexualities within Colonial Worlds

Although archaeological studies of the historic past have long explored the dynamics of European colonialism, broader issues of sexuality, embodiment, commemoration, reproduction, and sensuality have only recently become acknowledged as essential components of the “imperial project.” How can we better appreciate the material implications of human sexuality when we come to interpret these complex colonial worlds? Ranging from anticipated and pleasurable, to strategic and even involuntary, these intimate encounters are not merely by-products of colonial projects but are fundamental structures of colonization. This volume offers a unique exploration of this sensitive topic by presenting a series of comparative and contrasting archaeological case studies on the multifaceted intersections of colonialism and sexuality.