What is an artifact?

An artifact is a man-made object that provides valuable insights into the culture, technology, and daily life of past societies. These objects can include tools, pottery, clothing, and art, reflecting the skills and creativity of the people who created them. Artifacts are crucial for archaeologists and historians because they offer tangible evidence of human activity and help reconstruct historical events and lifestyles.

The distinction between artifacts and other concepts is important. For example, a natural occurrence refers to something that exists in nature without human intervention, which does not align with the definition of an artifact. A historical site represents a location of significant historical value, but it may contain numerous artifacts rather than being one itself. A traditional story, while important for understanding cultural heritage, is not an artifact as it does not refer to a physical object. Thus, recognizing the characteristics of artifacts is essential for studying history and anthropology effectively.