Variations in Connectivity: Mapping Long-distance interaction in the Prehistoric U.S Southwest

Summary

Changes documented from the pre-Classic to Classic period (A.D. 475-1450) suggest that a larger social or political movement was occurring within the Hohokam regional system, but the motives behind this change are poorly understood. To fully understand this phenomenon it is necessary to examine how the change differed within the Hohokam regional system. Researchers can observe this relationship through the study of what Nelson (2006:345) calls "interaction markers", artifacts and architectural styles that incorporate a Mesoamerican element (e.g., copper bells, macaws, ballcourts).These markers are present in both the Phoenix and Tucson regions but appear in different proportions, possibly relating to social relationships, the organization of trade networks, or political organization. This research compares the presence of Mesoamerican interaction markers at archaeological sites in the Phoenix and Tucson basins, and estimates the costs of transporting the markers to the respective regions. It is not well understood how interaction and connectivity with other regions, such as North Mexico, changed during this time. Comparing the patterning of interaction markers between the Phoenix and Tucson basins is a useful starting point in understanding the degree of Mesoamerican integration over the Hohokam sequence.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 81st Annual Meeting, Orlando, FL (2016)

Keywords

Spatial Coverage