This lecture will be held in room 522 of the

Boston University College of Arts and Sciences

In 1899 following years of concerted effort to quell a revolt in Sudan, Anglo-Egyptian forces claimed victory, and the Anglo-Egyptian Condominium agreement was signed. This military and political act had important consequences socially and culturally, through archaeology. In this talk, I will explore the early 20th century history of archaeology and tourism in Sudan, from the creation and early years of the Sudan Antiquities Section to the excavation and promotion of sites such as Meroe, a key part of Sudan's burgeoning tourism strategy. The antiquities and sites of Sudan may not be known outside specialist circles today, but in the early 20th century the country's sites, and the people excavating them, were incorporated into popular media and marketing in the West.