Human Relations Area Files

Announcing HRAF Global Scholars for 2026

HRAF is pleased to announce the HRAF Global Scholars for 2026. This program provides scholars around the world with one year of complimentary access to our research databases, eHRAF World Cultures and eHRAF Archaeology. Applications for the…

Thanks, but no thanks: Expressions of gratitude in eHRAF World Cultures

By Francine Barone During the end-of-year "holiday season" throughout much of the Western world, we are often reminded to be grateful for the things that we have, and even to go out of our way…

HRAF Celebrates Archaeology Day 2025

On Thursday, October 16, the Human Relations Area Files at Yale University hosted an event in celebration of International Archaeology Day. Each October, the Archaeological Institute of America and organizations around the world present archaeological…

Towards an Anthropology of Fear: are some things universally terrifying?

By Francine Barone As All Hallow’s Eve approaches, it’s once again the time of year for ghastly ghouls, wicked witches and terrifying things that go bump in the night. From haunted houses to headless horsemen,…

Pumpkins around the world

By Francine Barone Pumpkins are typically associated with Halloween in the form of carved “jack-o-lanterns” and, especially in the United States, with pumpkin pie on Thanksgiving. But around the world, pumpkins have been an important…