Introduction

In this introductory chapter, Weiss and Springer introduce the two basic themes of the book: 1) the value of the study of human remains, and 2) the barriers or limitations they see to that study within the parameters of NAGPRA (the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act).

NAGPRA and Beyond

Weiss and Springer provide historical summary with specific case examples of American Indian legislation and court decisions. The most important of these for the study of human remains is NAGPRA, which was enacted in 1990.

Biological Relationships

Weiss and Springer explain the many ways anthropologists determine biological relatedness; DNA, mitochondrial DNA, Y-chromosome DNA, metric and nonmetric cranial and dental traits are all types of data used to reconstruct who is related to whom. These methods have helped to answer how the Americas were peopled.

Reconstructing the Past

Weiss and Springer summarize the bioarchaeological research that has challenged previously held stereotypes of Native Americans, answering questions about population size in North America prior to Columbus’s arrival; social structure of pre-contact Native Americans; violence rates in Native American tribes both before and after Columbus’s arrival; Native Americans health and diseases, such as tuberculosis and syphilis, before and after contact with Europeans; Native American diet throughout time; and Native Americans’ relationship with their environment.

Paleoindians

This chapter discusses how bioarchaeologists understand humans’ past activities, biology, health, diseases, and culture. It focuses on the study of human remains from the Paleoindian period, including Kennewick Man, Browns Valley Man, the Buhl Burial, and others.

Indian Treatment of the Human Body

Weiss and Springer argue that many contemporary views of burial practice in American Indian culture do not reflect burial practices as revealed by historic and anthropological research. The authors question why these views of burial practice should be deferred to by the larger society through repatriation policy.

North American Mummies

Chapter 2 highlights the North American mummies from the Southwest, Southeast, and Alaska. Techniques used to study North American mummies are reviewed. Research on the North American mummies focusses on diet, trauma and diseases.

Other Repatriation Movements in the United States

In this chapter, Weiss and Springer review Native American genetics research cases. The main case examined is the genetic research conducted on the Havasupai tribe. Many tribes have since placed limits on genetics research.

Repatriation and the End of Scientific Freedom

Weiss and Springer feel repatriation laws impede scientific research by limiting skeletal collections and by removing freedom of inquiry of skeletal remains.

Conclusions

Weiss and Springer conclude by reviewing their argument on the relationship between repatriation laws and scientific research.