Against All Odds: The History of Archaeological Research in Somaliland and Somalia

This article presents an overview of the history of archaeological work in Somaliland

and Somalia from the late nineteenth century to the present, situating

that work within its ever-changing social and political contexts. It also assesses

the current challenges and opportunities that archaeological practice faces

in both regions. Despite numerous obstacles—including political instability,

a fragmented academic community, and def?iciencies in the publication and

dissemination of f?indings in multiple research languages—the article contends

that the extensive data from previous and current archaeological studies, if

assembled and properly utilized, can shed light on a range of key questions in

the prehistory and history of the Horn of Africa. Finally, the article notes the

growing threats to the archaeological and historical heritage in the region,

and suggests how institutions, academics and the Somali community can

join efforts to protect and preserve the remains of one of the most impressive

African heritages.