William G. Shanks, a former lawyer turned archaeology enthusiast, embarked on a life-changing sabbatical in Jerusalem in 1972, which sparked a profound interest in the ancient discipline. This newfound passion ultimately led him to establish the esteemed Biblical Archaeology Society and assume the esteemed role of Editor for the renowned Biblical Archaeology Review (BAR),a magazine that has become a benchmark for excellence in the field of Holy Land archaeology. Throughout his illustrious career, Shanks has demonstrated his versatility by authoring and editing a diverse array of books, magazines, and articles, leaving an indelible mark on the world of biblical archaeology.
