ANTH 146 – Archaeology of Ancient North America
This course is an introduction to the indigenous peoples and cultures of ancient North America. Drawing upon archaeological and anthropological perspectives, we will survey the culturally diverse and environmentally complex continent from the first Ice Age peoples through the earliest interactions with Europeans. Key theoretical issues considered in this course include human-environmental interaction, the emergence of complexity, warfare, ritual and religion, trade, and identity. Finally, we will explore how new archaeological evidence and contemporary approaches have changed our perspectives on the peoples and lifeways of ancient North America and impacted our ethical responsibilities to their descendants.
ANTH 205 – Archaeological Field Methods
This course is a practicum of archaeological field methods and techniques. The fundamental principles of archaeological research will be considered. Students will create and implement their own research design in the context of on-going investigations. Emphasis will be placed on practicing the essential skills needed to conduct archaeological research.
Additional Field Trips:
In addition to fieldwork and seminars, students will take several excursions to view archaeological sites and archived collections. Students will visit the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site near St. Louis. This World Heritage was home to the largest pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico.