The use of historical evidence in studies on underwater munitions
2021
Souchen, Alex
Marine scientists and other experts depend on information found in archival documents and other historical records to investigate underwater munitions. These sources help them locate dumpsites, establish timelines, identify ordnance, and better understand the hazards, chemicals, and degradation products found in their studies. However, historical sources do not always satisfy these needs, and can sometimes lead investigators down convoluted, incomplete, and misleading trails of evidence. This article seeks to provide scientists with some advice about conducting archival research and interpreting meaning from historical sources by recounting the history of a dumping operation that never happened over the summer of 1921. In doing so, this article demonstrates the value of historical perspectives and research methodologies, and encourages scientists to better integrate historical evidence into their work and seek out more collaborative opportunities with historians.
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