An overview of textiles in archaeology is presented, emphasizing the history of textiles in the United Kingdom. Textiles rarely survive, except in the desert, where dryness and salt minimize bacterial activity, or in peat bogs, where wetness and humic acid have a comparable effect. Textiles, like any other archaeological artifacts, may provide critical information about their culture. Fibers and their preparation, spinning, weaving, nonwoven fabrics, needlework, fulling, and dyeing and dyestuffs are reviewed relative to their historical significance. -- AATA