The Evolution of Comfort Food
An archaeologist considers the history and biology of what defines a taste of home.
Anna Goldfield
Anna Goldfield, an archaeologist who received her Ph.D. from Boston University, specializes in analyzing faunal remains from archaeological sites, with particular emphasis on the diets of Neanderthals and anatomically modern humans. She is currently an adjunct instructor in anthropology at Cosumnes River College in Sacramento and at the University of California, Davis. Goldfield is the illustrator of The Neanderthal Child of Roc de Marsal: A Prehistoric Mystery and co-host of The Dirt, an archaeology podcast. Follow her on Twitter @AnnaGoldfield.
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A Spark of Insight Into Neanderthal Behavior
Not just for trampoline jumpers and sweater wearers, static electricity is helping archaeologists illuminate the behavior of our ancient cousins.
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Do I Have Microremains in My Teeth?
Tiny particles called “microremains” that get trapped in dental plaque tell a story of long ago diets and ecosystems.
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Coronavirus and Coping With Death
Anthropologists often study people who have died. Can the field provide context and comfort during a pandemic?
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The Neanderthal Ear—Prone to Irritating Infections
Skeletal remains show signs of flat ear tubes and bony growths that suggest Neanderthal ears were plagued by bacteria.
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Neanderthal Legs and Feet—Suited to Sprinting
The Neanderthal leg proportions and tendons, along with their genes, made our ancient cousins designed for short bursts of speed.