Human Biology and History

This multi-disciplinary volume weaves together the fields of biology, archaeology, anthropology, and history to produce an in-depth analysis of the biological history of past human populations. With contributions from a panel of experts, the book fully explores research methods, theoretical approaches, and the outcomes of research. Chapters include discussions on adaptation and the English demographic regime, warfare and population structure, and a human ecological approach to the interface of history and biology. A unique interlacing of human biology and history, this book presents a fresh perspective to the subject for students and professionals across all levels and disciplines.

Malcolm Smith

Human Biology and History: The Scope and Scale of Interaction. Adaptation and the English Demographic Regime. British Polygyny. Warfare and Population Structure. Isonymy Analysis: The Potential for Application of Quantitative Analysis of Surname Distributions to Problems in Historical Research. Calculating Nutritional Status in the Past from Historical Sources. The Achievements of Anthropometric History. Palaeobiology as a Tool for the Study of Survival of Past Populations. 'Observe: Our Noses Were Made to Carry Spectacles, So We Have Spectacles'. Mines, Meals and Movement: A Human Ecological Approach to the Interface of 'History and Biology