Which anthropologist is associated with the preservation of Indian tribal culture through salvage ethnography?

The correct answer is associated with Alfred Kroeber, who was a prominent anthropologist known for his work in cultural anthropology and his efforts in salvage ethnography. Salvage ethnography refers to the practice of documenting and preserving the cultures of Indigenous peoples who were believed to be on the brink of extinction due to colonialism and modernization. Kroeber emphasized the importance of recording languages, customs, and traditions of Native American tribes, as he feared these cultures were rapidly disappearing.

Kroeber's work included extensive field studies and the collection of artifacts, narratives, and linguistic data, which played a vital role in providing a detailed understanding of these cultures that could be shared with future generations. His commitment to preserving the knowledge and cultural expressions of Indigenous communities reflects a broader anthropological concern for the impacts of societal changes on traditional ways of life.

While the other anthropologists listed have made significant contributions to the field, their primary focuses were not specifically on salvage ethnography. For example, Ruth Benedict concentrated more on cultural patterns and personality, Clifford Geertz was renowned for his interpretive approach to culture, and Marcel Mauss is best known for his work on reciprocity and gift economies.