Underwater archaeology

Underwater archaeology is archaeology practiced underwater, covering sites from prehistory through historical and industrial eras. It developed partly from the skills and tools of shipwreck salvagers, but became established as an archaeological sub-discipline when universities began teaching it and its theoretical and practical base developed in the late 1980s. Its subjects include submerged settlements, structures, wells, cenotes, shipwrecks, aircraft, ports and underwater refuse sites.

Definition

Archaeology practiced underwater

Academic establishment

Theoretical and practical base established in the late 1980s

Scope

Not restricted to shipwrecks