Defining Markers of Occupational Stress in the Ancient Fisherman of Huanchaco, Perú: When Modern Ethnography and Bioarchaeology Intersect

Summary

This is an abstract from the "SAA 2019: General Sessions" session, at the 84th annual meeting of the Society for American Archaeology.

Archaeological excavations and bioarcheological analyses reveal that marine resources and fishing are main form of sustenance on the north coast of Peru – these traditional fishing practices have endured over 3,000 years. Although the degree of reliance on marine resources has shifted from the Initial Period (1500-1200 cal. BC) to present day, traditional fisherman continue to utilize the traditional reed fishing boats caballito de totora (Schoenoplectus californicus subsp. tatora plant). A deep knowledge of marine resources is still prevalent in the small northern coastal town of Huanchaco, Moche Valley, Peru. Past excavations of the Programa Arqueologico Huanchaco (PAHUAN) have recovered the remains of ancient fishermen, as confirmed by their grave goods. Bioarchaeological analysis clearly reveal a common pattern of physical stress on these ancient remains. These specific markers of occupational stress, left by activities related to human interaction with the sea, will be defined. Specific examples from ethnographic study of modern-day fisherman of Huanchaco will be presented, with a discussion of how bioarchaeologists can recognize the same stress markers on the bones of past people by looking to people here today.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 84th Annual Meeting, Albuquerque, NM (2019)

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Record Identifiers

Abstract Id(s): 23284