Archaeology Term: Terminus Post Quem
Terminus post quem, meaning “date after which,” is an archaeological term that identifies the earliest possible date something could have been created or deposited.
This concept helps archaeologists set a chronological starting point, marking when an object or structure must have come into existence.
Establishing a terminus post quem involves finding materials, such as coins, pottery, or written records, that indicate the earliest known occurrence of the artifact type or layer. For instance, if a coin from a specific year is found within a layer, anything above or containing it must date to that year or later.
This dating technique allows archaeologists to build timelines even when more precise methods are unavailable, by indicating the earliest point in time a layer or object could belong. The method relies on known historical or typological information, such as the time period when a particular style of pottery was produced.
In some cases, terminus post quem can be established using natural events, such as volcanic eruptions or floods, which leave unique markers in the layers of soil or ash. If a structure is covered by ash from a dated eruption, then that structure’s existence predates that event, giving a clear terminus post quem.
Terminus post quem is vital for creating relative chronologies at archaeological sites, as it provides a foundation to sequence other finds or layers. By identifying the earliest date for one layer, archaeologists can assess other features within the site based on their positions in relation to it.
Using terminus post quem, researchers can make connections between layers within a site and across different sites, identifying patterns in human activity over time. For example, if similar pottery appears in layers across various sites, terminus post quem dating helps establish regional timelines for cultural exchange.
This method is particularly useful in historical archaeology, where artifacts like coins or imported goods offer clear dating markers. In the absence of absolute dating methods, terminus post quem acts as a reliable guideline for dating archaeological remains.
While terminus post quem doesn’t provide an exact date, it gives archaeologists a necessary chronological anchor. This term serves as a fundamental tool for sequencing past human activity, helping researchers establish a structured understanding of history.
Terminus post quem marks the earliest possible date for an archaeological find, giving archaeologists a crucial starting point for organizing materials. This method enables the construction of chronologies and deepens understanding of the timing and context of human events.
