Journal of African Archaeology

Scope & Guideline

Fostering Insights into Africa's Archaeological Legacy

Introduction

Explore the comprehensive scope of Journal of African Archaeology through our detailed guidelines, including its aims and scope. Stay updated with trending and emerging topics, and delve into declining areas to understand shifts in academic interest. Our guidelines also showcase highly cited topics, featuring influential research making a significant impact. Additionally, discover the latest published papers and those with high citation counts, offering a snapshot of current scholarly conversations. Use these guidelines to explore Journal of African Archaeology in depth and align your research initiatives with current academic trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1612-1651
PublisherBRILL
Support Open AccessNo
CountryGermany
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2003 to 2024
AbbreviationJ AFR ARCHAEOL / J. Afr. Archaeol.
Frequency2 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressPLANTIJNSTRAAT 2, P O BOX 9000, 2300 PA LEIDEN, NETHERLANDS

Aims and Scopes

The Journal of African Archaeology aims to advance the understanding of the diverse archaeological heritage of Africa. It emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and the integration of various methodologies to explore the continent's past, focusing on cultural, social, and economic dynamics.
  1. Interdisciplinary Research:
    The journal encourages research that integrates archaeology with other disciplines such as anthropology, history, and environmental science, providing a holistic view of African cultures.
  2. Cultural Heritage and Identity:
    A core aim is to explore the links between archaeology and contemporary cultural identities, examining how past societies shape present-day communities.
  3. Technological Innovations in Archaeology:
    The journal focuses on the application of modern technologies and methodologies in archaeological research, including isotopic analysis, geophysical surveying, and advanced dating techniques.
  4. Regional Archaeology:
    Significant emphasis is placed on regional studies across Africa, highlighting the unique archaeological narratives of different areas, such as North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the islands.
  5. Socio-Economic Dynamics:
    Research often addresses the socio-economic aspects of ancient societies, including trade, resource management, and the impacts of climate change on cultural development.
The Journal of African Archaeology reflects evolving research interests, with certain themes gaining traction in recent years.
  1. Population Dynamics and Mobility:
    Recent publications emphasize the investigation of population movements and dynamics through innovative methodologies like isotopic analysis, shedding light on migration patterns in ancient communities.
  2. Textile Production and Use:
    There is a growing interest in textiles as cultural artifacts, exploring their roles in funerary practices and daily life, which highlights the complexity of social identities.
  3. Climate Change and Resilience:
    Research addressing the impacts of climate change on ancient societies is increasingly common, focusing on how communities adapted to environmental shifts.
  4. Interdisciplinary Approaches to Archaeology:
    Emerging themes reflect a strong trend towards interdisciplinary research, combining archaeology with history, anthropology, and environmental sciences to provide comprehensive insights.
  5. Local Community Engagement in Archaeology:
    An increasing number of studies focus on the role of local communities in archaeological research, emphasizing participatory approaches and the importance of cultural heritage in contemporary society.

Declining or Waning

While the Journal of African Archaeology has a broad scope, certain themes appear to be declining in frequency or prominence in recent publications.
  1. Traditional Historical Narratives:
    There seems to be a waning interest in traditional historical narratives that focus solely on elite histories or monumental architecture, as newer research emphasizes everyday life and community practices.
  2. Isolated Archaeological Studies:
    Research that focuses on isolated archaeological sites without broader contextual analysis is becoming less common, with a shift towards studies that integrate findings within wider regional or thematic frameworks.
  3. Colonial Archaeology:
    Topics centered solely on colonial impacts without connecting to indigenous perspectives are less frequently addressed, reflecting a growing emphasis on post-colonial narratives and local agency.
  4. Static Cultural Representations:
    The portrayal of African cultures as static or unchanging is declining, with more studies highlighting dynamic interactions and cultural exchanges over time.
  5. Focus on Material Culture Alone:
    There is a noticeable decrease in studies that focus exclusively on material culture without considering the social and historical contexts, as interdisciplinary approaches gain prominence.

Similar Journals

Bulletin de la Societe Prehistorique Francaise

Fostering Scholarly Dialogue on Our Ancient Heritage
Publisher: SOCIETE PREHISTORIQUE FRANCAISEISSN: 0249-7638Frequency: 4 issues/year

Bulletin de la Societe Prehistorique Francaise (ISSN: 0249-7638; E-ISSN: 1760-7361), published by the SOCIETE PREHISTORIQUE FRANCAISE, stands as a pivotal journal within the domain of archaeology, particularly emphasizing prehistoric studies. With its classification in the Q2 quartile of both the arts and humanities as well as social sciences in archaeology, the journal positions itself among the top 25% of publications in these categories as of 2023. This distinguished ranking reflects its significant contribution to the field, providing researchers, professionals, and students with critical insights and innovative methodologies related to prehistoric research. Although open access options are currently unavailable, the journal is committed to fostering academic discourse and sharing knowledge that influences contemporary archaeological practices. As a member of the elite academic community, Bulletin de la Societe Prehistorique Francaise is highly regarded for its rigorous peer-review process and dedication to the advancement of archaeology, making it an essential resource for anyone invested in understanding our historical roots.

Bulletin of the American Society of Overseas Research

Fostering interdisciplinary insights into archaeology and cultural narratives.
Publisher: UNIV CHICAGO PRESSISSN: 2769-3600Frequency: 2 issues/year

Bulletin of the American Society of Overseas Research, published by the University of Chicago Press, serves as a premier platform for scholarly discourse in the fields of archaeology, cultural studies, and history. With its ISSN 2769-3600 and E-ISSN 2769-3589, this journal has swiftly established itself as a key resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike, demonstrating exceptional impact as evidenced by its Q1 rankings in multiple relevant categories for 2023. Notably, it holds the 93rd percentile rank in Arts and Humanities (History) and the 84th percentile in Social Sciences (Cultural Studies), evidencing its respected standing within the academic community. The journal's commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering interdisciplinary dialogue is complemented by its accessible publication from 2022 to 2024, making it an essential read for those engaged in the exploration of global cultural histories and archaeological research.

Bulgarsko e-Spisanie za Arkheologiya-Bulgarian e-Journal of Archaeology

Fostering collaboration for groundbreaking archaeological insights.
Publisher: ASSOC BULGARIAN ARCHAEOLOGISTSISSN: 1314-5088Frequency: 2 issues/year

Bulgarsko e-Spisanie za Arkheologiya - Bulgarian e-Journal of Archaeology is a prominent open-access journal published by the ASSOC BULGARIAN ARCHAEOLOGISTS since 2011, serving as a vital platform for the dissemination of archaeological research and findings in Bulgaria and beyond. With the ISSN 1314-5088, this journal is dedicated to advancing knowledge in the field of archaeology, facilitating the sharing of innovative studies, fieldwork results, and theoretical discussions. It is particularly significant for researchers, professionals, and students who are interested in the archaeological heritage of Bulgaria, providing an accessible venue for high-quality scholarly contributions. The journal's commitment to open access ensures that its rich repository of knowledge is available to a global audience, enhancing collaboration and fostering new discoveries within the discipline.

Norwegian Archaeological Review

Connecting Disciplines, Enriching Heritage
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0029-3652Frequency: 2 issues/year

Norwegian Archaeological Review, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a leading interdisciplinary journal that has made significant contributions to the field of archaeology since its inception in 1968. With an impressive Q1 ranking in the Arts and Humanities category for archaeology and an 86th percentile ranking in Scopus, this journal serves as a crucial platform for showcasing innovative research that advances our understanding of human history and cultural heritage. The Review provides a diverse range of scholarly articles, critical reviews, and thoughtful discussions, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. While the journal currently does not offer an open-access option, it continues to maintain high editorial standards and relevance within the academic community, with publication converging up to 2024. The Norwegian Archaeological Review thrives as a nexus for academic discourse, encouraging the exploration of archaeological methodology, theory, and practice against the backdrop of contemporary global challenges.

ANTIQUITY

Bridging the Past and Present Through Scholarly Discourse
Publisher: CAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESSISSN: 0003-598XFrequency: 6 issues/year

ANTIQUITY is a prestigious academic journal published by Cambridge University Press that has been at the forefront of archaeological and humanities scholarship since its inception in 1927. With its roots firmly planted in the United Kingdom, the journal has achieved remarkable recognition, maintaining a Q1 ranking in both the fields of Archaeology and Arts and Humanities as of 2023. With an impressive Scopus ranking of #3 out of 173 in General Arts and Humanities and #28 out of 354 in Archaeology, it underscores its significant impact and influence in shaping contemporary discourse in these domains. Although it is not an Open Access journal, ANTIQUITY provides crucial insights into the evolution of human societies through a comprehensive range of archaeological studies, reviews, and theoretical discussions. By facilitating knowledge exchange among researchers, professionals, and students, ANTIQUITY not only enriches academic literature but also fosters a deeper understanding of our past.

Annales Instituti Archaeologici

Uncovering the Past, Shaping the Future of Archaeology
Publisher: INST ARHEOLOGIJUISSN: 1845-4046Frequency: 1 issue/year

Annales Instituti Archaeologici is a distinguished journal published by INST ARHEOLOGIJU, dedicated to advancing research in the field of archaeology. With an ISSN of 1845-4046 and an E-ISSN of 1848-6363, this journal serves as a vital platform for the dissemination of innovative archaeological studies and findings, reflecting the evolving trends and methodologies in this fascinating discipline. Based in Croatia, the journal captures a global audience, emphasized by its Q3 ranking in both Archaeology categories as per the latest 2023 metrics, indicating a solid presence in the academic landscape. Although it does not currently offer Open Access options, its impactful contributions are recognized through its Scopus ranks, where it stands at #137/413 in Archaeology related to Arts and Humanities and #135/354 in Social Sciences. Researchers, professionals, and students interested in the latest archaeological research and its applications will find Annales Instituti Archaeologici to be an invaluable resource, promoting knowledge and fostering scholarly communication within the archaeological community.

Journal of Ancient History and Archaeology

Illuminating the Pathways of Ancient Societies
Publisher: MEGA PUBLISHING HOUSEISSN: 2360-266XFrequency: 4 issues/year

Journal of Ancient History and Archaeology is a premier, open-access academic journal published by MEGA PUBLISHING HOUSE since 2014, dedicated to exploring the rich tapestry of ancient civilizations and archaeological discoveries. With ISSN 2360-266X, this journal has made significant strides in the field, achieving elevated rankings across multiple categories, including Q1 in Classics and Q2 in History as of 2023. Positioned in Romania, the journal serves an international audience of researchers, professionals, and students who seek to disseminate and access influential scholarship in ancient history and archaeology. As a prominent resource within the Scopus rankings, it reflects a robust commitment to advancing knowledge through quality research, making it a vital platform for the sharing and discussion of innovative ideas and methodologies. The journal covers a wide array of topics related to ancient societies, enhancing our understanding of their cultural, historical, and archaeological significance.

African Archaeological Review

Pioneering Research on Africa's Archaeological Landscape
Publisher: SPRINGERISSN: 0263-0338Frequency: 2 issues/year

Welcome to the African Archaeological Review, a leading academic journal published by Springer, dedicated to advancing the field of archaeology with a unique focus on the African continent. Since its inception in 1983, this journal has become a pivotal platform for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to explore the complexities of African cultural heritage through empirical studies, theoretical discussions, and methodological innovations. With a commendable Q1 ranking in both Archaeology (Arts and Humanities) and Archaeology categories for 2023, this journal ranks among the top 10% of publications in its field, reflecting its influential contributions to archaeological scholarship. The Scopus ranking places it at #40 out of 413 in Arts and Humanities and #39 out of 354 in Social Sciences, highlighting its esteemed status within academic circles. Although it does not currently offer Open Access options, the journal remains committed to disseminating vital research findings that shape our understanding of Africa's rich archaeological landscape. Join a community dedicated to unraveling past human behaviors and interactions within diverse African environments through the pages of the African Archaeological Review.

Opuscula-Annual of the Swedish Institutes at Athens and Rome

Bridging Past and Present Through Cutting-Edge Scholarship
Publisher: EDITORIAL COMMITTEE SWEDISH INST ATHENS & ROMEISSN: 2000-0898Frequency: 1 issue/year

Opuscula - Annual of the Swedish Institutes at Athens and Rome is a distinguished academic journal dedicated to advancing the field of archaeology, classics, history, and the visual arts. Published by the Editorial Committee Swedish Institute Athens & Rome, this journal fosters interdisciplinary dialogue and research, contributing valuable scholarship to these interconnected domains. With an impressive impact factor reflected in the authoritative Scopus rankings, it holds a commendable Q2 ranking in Archaeology and Arts and Humanities and achieves Q1 status in Classics, History, and Visual Arts and Performing Arts. Although Open Access options are not specified, the journal remains a critical resource for scholars seeking peer-reviewed articles that cover a range of topics pertinent to the rich legacies of the Mediterranean. By bridging historical inquiry with contemporary analysis, Opuscula serves as an essential platform for researchers, professionals, and students, ensuring the ongoing vitality of academic discourse in these vital fields.

AUSTRALIAN ARCHAEOLOGY

Exploring the Depths of Australia’s Past.
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0312-2417Frequency: 3 issues/year

AUSTRAILIAN ARCHAEOLOGY, published by Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a leading academic journal dedicated to the field of archaeology. With a strong reputation as evidenced by its Q1 ranking in both the Arts and Humanities and Social Sciences categories, this journal fosters the growth and dissemination of pioneering research from diverse archaeological contexts. The journal has been a vital resource for scholars and practitioners since its convergence in 2002, supporting the collective advancement of knowledge in the archaeological discipline. By offering a platform for rigorous analysis and critical discussions, AUSTRAILIAN ARCHAEOLOGY appeals to a wide audience, from established researchers to students beginning their journey in archaeology. Although it is not an Open Access journal, the insights provided are invaluable for enhancing understanding and appreciation of Australia’s rich archaeological heritage. With a Scopus ranking that places it among the top contenders in its field, this journal continues to contribute significantly to outstanding archaeological scholarship and professional practice.