George Bass (archaeologist)

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George F. Bass

George Fletcher Bass (December 9, 1932 – March 2, 2021) was a pioneering underwater archaeologist who is often referred to as the "father of underwater archaeology." He spent much of his career excavating shipwrecks in the Mediterranean Sea and the Middle East, significantly advancing the field of archaeology.

Early Life and Education

George Bass was born in Columbia, South Carolina. He developed an interest in archaeology at a young age, which led him to pursue an academic career in the field. Bass earned his Bachelor's degree in Classical Archaeology from Johns Hopkins University and later obtained his Ph.D. in Near Eastern Archaeology from the University of Pennsylvania.

Career

Bass's career in underwater archaeology began in the early 1960s when he joined the excavation of a Bronze Age shipwreck off the coast of Cape Gelidonya, Turkey. This expedition marked the first time that a shipwreck had been excavated by archaeologists using diving equipment, setting a new standard for underwater archaeological methods.

In 1973, George Bass founded the Institute of Nautical Archaeology (INA), an organization dedicated to the scientific study of shipwrecks and other submerged cultural resources. Under his leadership, the INA conducted numerous significant underwater excavations, including the discovery and excavation of the Uluburun shipwreck, one of the oldest and most important shipwrecks ever found.

Throughout his career, Bass emphasized the importance of meticulous underwater excavation techniques and the use of cutting-edge technology in archaeology. His work helped to establish underwater archaeology as a respected academic discipline.

Contributions and Legacy

George Bass's contributions to archaeology are manifold. He was instrumental in developing the field of underwater archaeology and advocated for the preservation of underwater cultural heritage. His research significantly expanded our understanding of ancient trade, seafaring, and ship construction techniques.

Bass received numerous awards and honors for his work, including the National Medal of Science, the highest scientific honor in the United States, awarded to him in 2001. His legacy continues through the work of the Institute of Nautical Archaeology and the many students he taught and inspired throughout his career.

Selected Publications

George Bass authored and co-authored numerous books and articles on underwater archaeology, including:

• Archaeology Under Water (1966), an influential book that introduced the principles and methods of underwater archaeology to a wider audience.
• Shipwrecks in the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology (1986), which details the findings from shipwrecks excavated by the INA.

Death

George Bass passed away on March 2, 2021, leaving behind a profound legacy in the field of archaeology. His pioneering work has paved the way for future generations of underwater archaeologists.