Origins & Early Life

Lewis Roberts Binford (November 21, 1931 – April 11, 2011) was an American archaeologist known for his influential work in archaeological theory, ethnoarchaeology and the Paleolithic archaeology. He is widely considered among the most influential archaeologists of the later 20th century, and is credited with fundamentally changing the field with the introduction of processual archaeology (or the "New Archaeology") in the 1960s. Binford, a highly productive writer, who achieved an extraordinary level influence in ideas, methodology, and behavioral research internationally, a legacy that continues to the present. His influence was controversial, however, as he seemed to pit theoretical work in archaeology in the late 1980s and 1990s as either a reaction to or in support of the processual paradigm.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Recent appraisals remain split, some judging his contributions mainly in terms of his innovative ideas and approaches, and others focusing on the fact that his approach owed more to prior work in the 1940s and 50s than he recognized. Binford was born in Norfolk, Virginia, on November 21, 1931. As a child he was interested in animals, and after finishing high school...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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• 1931 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1931
• November 21 (11-21) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on November 21
• 2011 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 2011
• April 11 (04-11) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on April 11