Forensic Anthropology

by Peggy Thomas

Published 31 January 2003
This fully revised volume in the Science and Technology in Focus series tells the story of how forensic anthropology came to be and how it has been used to solve some of the most notable crimes of the last 150 years. Starting with the murder and dismemberment of a prominent Boston physician in 1849 and ending with the work of today's forensic pathologists, this book covers the history, technology, and importance of this fascinating field. Actual forensic cases are included to illustrate how forensic anthropologists collect evidence, identify a victim, determine a murder weapon, and reenact the scene of a crime. Special sections highlight the importance of forensic anthropology after the September 11 tragedy. This volume features such techniques as facial reconstruction, photographic superimposition, and genetic analysis. It also delves into the use of these and other techniques as a means of helping historians and anthropologists track the development and lives of our ancestors to the dawn of civilization and beyond.