Migration and Archaeological Network Research

Abstract

In this chapter, we focus on how the study of past migrations can be conducted through network-based approaches, and especially the application of formal social network analysis. Network approaches are particularly well-suited to the study of migration because many definitions are based on structural characteristics, such as “chain” or “leapfrog” patterns. They also allow migration studies to go beyond the use of static culture areas to look at relationships that crosscut those areas. We discuss how archaeologists use network analyses to look at different dimensions of migration including social, temporal and spatial scales; the social make-up of migrating groups; migration causes; the degree of pre- and post-migration connectivity; and how migration does or does not result in major transformations. We argue that network analysis of migration histories is ripe for new applications but that analyses should explicitly consider how variation along each dimension of migration may provide different expectations, constraints, and opportunities.