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A Justification of Wanuskewin Heritage Park's Merit as a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site

Date

2023-04-14

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

ORCID

0009-0005-4446-3458

Type

Thesis

Degree Level

Masters

Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to define and defend the justification of Wanuskewin Heritage Park’s eligibility and merits as a United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site. The research process included collecting existing information and data; identifying appropriate publications and resources for review; discussing and receiving input from leaders and staff at Wanuskewin Heritage Park, Elders and knowledge keepers, and subject matter experts; analysing existing information and data; synthesizing ideas and concepts, particularly as they related to the World Heritage criteria and process; and producing this final thesis. Coursework, fieldwork, literature review, case study reviews, archival studies and interviews with stakeholders and Elders resulted in clear recommendations. Analysis was completed of Canadian and global World Heritage Sites against Wanuskewin’s proposed case for inscription. The research indicates that Wanuskewin has a strong case for designation under UNESCO World Heritage criterion III: To bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared with a primary focus on the archaeological record as the foundation for nomination. The archaeological records at Wanuskewin are a complete and intact record of human settlement and interaction with their environment. While none of the heritage resources represent the best global example of their type, there is no other location in the world where the assemblage of these resources exist together. Archaeological and heritage resources at Wanuskewin include bison jumps, tipi rings, multi-component habitation sites, a Medicine Wheel and the findings of four petroglyphs. The diversity of resources and the diversity of human populations who visited the site offer a strong foundation for nomination.

Description

Keywords

UNESCO, World Heritage, Plains Archaeology, Northern Plains Indigenous Peoples, Saskatchewan, Wanuskewin

Citation

Degree

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Department

Interdisciplinary Studies

Program

Interdisciplinary Studies

Part Of

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DOI

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