If a historian wanted to determine whether iron tools could be found in the ruins of earn ancient African city, which kind of expert should he consult?

Answer 1

The expert that a historian should consult to determine whether iron tools could be found in the ruins of an ancient African city is an archaeologist. Archaeologists are experts in the study of human history through the recovery and analysis of material culture, which includes artifacts, architecture, and cultural landscapes. Iron tools would be considered a part of this "material culture."

Archaeologists have a deep understanding of the different types of tools that were used in different cultures and time periods. They would be able to examine the ruins of the ancient African city and determine whether there is any evidence of iron tools being used. This evidence could include the presence of iron slag, which is a byproduct of iron smelting, or the actual remains of iron tools.

In addition to their knowledge of material culture, archaeologists also have a deep understanding of the history of technology. They would be able to use this knowledge to determine when iron tools were first introduced to Africa and how they spread throughout the continent. This information would be invaluable to the historian who is trying to understand the development of iron technology in Africa.

Therefore, the best expert to consult to determine whether iron tools could be found in the ruins of an ancient African city is an archaeologist.