Forensic archaeology and anthropology in Brazil

Abstract

It is usual when reviewing a particular subject in a particular locality to begin with a definition and summary of practice. Consideration of forensic archaeology in Brazil, however, requires some understanding of Brazilian history in relation to this important - but neglected - area of knowledge, and how it is located in the context of contemporary Brazilian society. Importantly, forensic archaeology in Brazil has been closely intertwined with the development of forensic anthropology, although contributions from more traditional archaeological thought and practice have become a more recent feature. This chapter therefore begins with a brief overview of Brazil's somewhat hectic past and some key developments in legislation that have led to the rather incongruous state of forensic archaeology in a country whose economy is ranked the world's sixth largest and which has been chosen to host major sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup in 2014 and the Olympic Games in 2016. Discussion of the contemporary situation in forensic archaeology in Brazil then follows with reference to illustrative examples.