Historical archaeology is a specialized field that focuses on studying the material remains of past human societies from the more recent (such as colonial America) to the more distant (such as the Medieval period). Through the study of artifacts, structures, and other material remains, historical archaeologists aim to better understand the ways in which people lived in the past and the ways in which their behavior was influenced by material culture, social structures, economic systems, and other factors. The field draws on expertise in archaeology, history, and anthropology to piece together the social, economic, and cultural landscapes of past societies.