William O'Brien (archaeologist) facts for kids

William O'Brien is an Irish archaeologist. He is famous for studying how people lived in the Bronze Age. He also researched how people first started using metals in Ireland.

Professor O'Brien teaches at University College Cork. He is also a chosen member of the Royal Irish Academy. This is a group of top experts in Ireland.

Who is William O'Brien?

William O'Brien finished his advanced studies at University College Cork in 1987. His research looked at how people first started digging for copper long ago. This was before modern tools existed.

He taught for 16 years at NUI Galway. He worked in the Department of Archaeology there.

What Does He Study?

Professor O'Brien is very interested in several topics. He studies the Chalcolithic and Bronze Age in Ireland. The Chalcolithic period was when people first used copper. The Bronze Age was when they started making tools from bronze.

He also studies early mining and metalworking in Europe. This includes how people found and used metals. He looks at old sites in high, hilly areas. He also studies hillforts, which were ancient forts on hills. He explores all kinds of big, old structures from prehistoric times.

Focus on Southwest Ireland

Professor O'Brien has a special interest in southwest Ireland. He sees this area as very important in ancient history. He has led many digs there. These digs help us learn more about how people lived thousands of years ago.