Article Abstract:
Major developments in archaeological research in South America in recent decades have concerned human colonization of the New World, early development of complex societies, and interpretation and conservation of archaeological sites. Monte Verde, Chile, the earliest known site in South America, dates to 12,500 years BP. Complex societies began to arise between 6000 and 5000 BP. Andean civilization dates back to about 2500 BC. Discoveries at Sechin Alto, Sipan, Laguna de Los Condores, and Huanuco Pampa in the Andes ; San Agustin, Colombia; and Tiwanaku, Bolivia, have advanced knowledge of cultural evolution.
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Article Abstract:
Methodological and theoretical advances have vastly expanded knowledge of North American prehistory over the past 50 years of archaeological research. Significant developments include discovery of important sites such as Ozette on the Pacific Coast of Washington, Olsen-Chubbuck on the Colorado Plains, and the Old Crow River in Canada; research on the shift from foraging to agriculture; a regional rather than site-specific focus at Chaco; work on the contact period; and passage of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act.
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Article Abstract:
The question of how and when the Americas were first settled remains unsettled. The Clovis site in New Mexico had been accepted as the earliest prehistoric site, suggesting that the first Americans crossed the Bering Land Bridge around 12,000-11,000 BP. However, some sites that may predate Clovis have subsequently been found, such as Monte Verde, Chile. A Pacific Coast route has also been suggested, and there may have been a number of migratory pulses.
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