Topic
EXCLUDED/EXPOSED – The Exhumation of Marginalised Groups
Adopting a broad perspective on violence in the 20th century and discussing the opportunities and challenges of violence archaeology are very important tasks. To this end, this research integrates insights from archaeology (also so-called political exhumations), physical anthropology, history and memory studies.
EXCLUDED/EXPOSED – The Exhumation of Marginalised Groups:
An Integrated Perspective on the Opportunities and Challenges of Violence Archaeology, Anthropology and Memory studies
The project’s objective is to combine different perspectives on violence during the 20th century, including insights from archaeology (including exhumations), physical anthropology, history and memory studies. Historical sources and field investigations reveal not only how the victims were killed but also how their remains were concealed – effectively annihilating them from memory.
Among marginalised groups, disabled individuals and children hold a particularly significant position. Polish citizens in areas conquered by Nazi Germany were also victims of German crimes against the disabled.
Archaeological and exhumation research provide evidence, as well as new data about the war violence, the fate of people and their remains. Political exhumations and studies of this phenomenon should be conducted not only using biological sciences but also the humanities – within the broader context of European memory studies. As a physical anthropologist, I seek enrich historical research by providing insights into some biological issues. With respect to archaeology, I can contribute new observations regarding the concealment of victims’ remains.
