Pre-Columbian Conflict and Early Social Complexity in Java, Southern Costa Rica

Summary

Based on the Spanish chronicles from the Contact period (Sixteenth century), we know that the inhabitants of what is now Southern Costa Rica were in constant violent conflict, at least during the last pre-Columbian years. On the other side, warriors, captives and trophy heads are a recurrent theme in the sculptures and other artistic representations from this archaeological area. Although the importance of warfare and conflict during the pre-Columbian period has been considered in archaeological investigations in this zone, it has been always as a side topic or only a potential explanation. In this context, the site Java presents an excellent opportunity to explore the relation between warfare and the emergence of inequality. Its topographic characteristics, size and material remains indicate that it might be one of the communities engaged in conflict that the Spaniards found upon their arrival to this region. This research will evaluate the role that warfare might have played in the social dynamics at Java, by looking at indications of the relevance of conflict and social differentiation through time.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 83rd Annual Meeting, Washington, DC (2018)

Keywords

Spatial Coverage

Record Identifiers

Abstract Id(s): 21152