Many important ancient civilizations developed in the lower Americas, including the Incas, Moche, Chimu, Olmecs, Zapotecs, Teotihuacanos, Mayas and Aztecs. These cultures developed complex societies, reached high levels of technological evolution, built monumental constructions, and shared many cultural practices. In this seminar we will investigate the peoples and civilizations of this area before 1500 CE and the arrival of Columbus. We will explore the emergence of agriculture, the development of village life, and the rise of complex societies, as well as their religious and scientific practices.
Publications and resources that will be used by participants (maximum 100 words): Many locally available books can be found as well as topics available on the internet. Several resource texts include: Stuart, David, The Four Heavens: A new History of the Ancient Maya, Princeton University Press, 2026; Moore, Jerry, D., A Prehistory of South America, University of Colorado Press, 2014; Evans, S. T., Ancient Mexico and Central America: Archaeology and Culture History, Thames and Hudson, 2008; Hutson, Scott R. and Ardren, Tracy, The Maya World, Routledge Press, 2020.
Morning seminars run from 9:30 am – 11:30 am.
