THE PURPOSE, TASKS AND COMPOSITION OF THE RAPHAEL PUMPELLY EXPEDITION
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Abstract
The Raphael Pumpelly expedition to Turkestan (1903–1904), organized under the Carnegie Institution of Washington, marked one of the earliest American-sponsored scientific missions to Central Asia. Its purpose combined geological and geographical exploration, archaeological and historical investigation, and ethnographic documentation, reflecting a broad ambition to position the United States within the global scientific community. The expedition’s tasks included mapping landscapes, surveying soils and mineral resources, excavating ancient sites along the Silk Road, and recording the languages and customs of local populations. The composition of the expedition was international in scope: alongside prominent American and European scientists, a crucial role was played by local officials, interpreters, guides, and workers whose contributions enabled the team’s mobility and success. Examining the expedition’s aims, concrete fieldwork activities, and diverse personnel provides insight into the interplay of science, culture, and geopolitics in early twentieth-century Central Asia.
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1.Pumpelly, Raphael. Explorations in Turkestan: Expedition of 1903. Carnegie Institution of Washington Publication no. 26, Carnegie Institution, 1905. Available at Internet Archive
2.Pumpelly, Raphael, editor. Explorations in Turkestan, Expedition of 1904: Prehistoric Civilizations of Anau, Origins, Growth, and Influence of Environment. Carnegie Institution of Washington Publication no. 73, Carnegie Institution, 1908. Available at Biodiversity Heritage Library
3.American Museum of Natural History Research Library. Raphael Pumpelly Papers and Turkestan Expedition Records. American Museum of Natural History, n.d.
4.Stony Brook University Libraries. Raphael Pumpelly Papers, 1903–1904 (Anau and Merv Excavations). Stony Brook University, n.d. Available at AMAR Commons
5.University of Pennsylvania Libraries. Raphael Pumpelly: Anau Excavations, 1904. University of Pennsylvania, n.d.