This course is designed to give students an overview of some of the theory and practices in historical archaeology. The goal is to demonstrate how the discipline contributes to enhancing the story of America’s cultural heritage. Many claim that history is written by the winners. In recent years an increasing number of historical archaeologists have dedicated themselves to challenging the dominant narrative. Archaeology adds significant insights into issues regarding race, gender, and class. The discipline can help create an alternative voice for groups who were often unable to record their own histories, such as women, laborers, working-class families, and enslaved people.