Book

Ceramics and community organization among the Hohokam

University of Arizona Press • Tucson • Published In 2000 • Pages:

By: Abbott, David R..

Abstract
Abbott uses ceramic data to examine the social relationships of the Hohokam. Based on geological studies in the basin he is now able to examine the temper in a pot sherd and determine the source of the temper and therefore the area where the pot was made. Contrary to long held assumptions, plainware pots were also being exchanged within the Phoenix Basin. Abbott is then able to infer that despite the complexity of their canal system, the Hohokam used a kin-based social mechanism to control their irrigation facilities. There is some indication that during the Classic period, as the platform mounds were used for elevated households, some elites were trying to consolidate power and change the system to a vertically stratified one. However, the worsening predictability of the water flow from the Salt River prevented the elites from establishing a more stratified society.
Subjects
Social relationships and groups
Ceramic technology
Internal trade
Classes
tradition
Hohokam
HRAF PubDate
2010
Region
North America
Sub Region
Southwest and Basin
Document Type
Book
Evaluation
Creator Type
Archaeologist
Document Rating
4: Excellent Secondary Data
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Sarah Berry; 2009
Field Date
no date
Coverage Date
1050-550 BP (AD 950-1450)
Coverage Place
Phoenix basin, Arizona, United States
Notes
David R. Abbott
Peering into the reflections -- Environmental and cultural background -- Hohokam social organization -- Projects at Pueblo Grande and elsewhere -- Establishing the geographic source of temper-- Chemical assays of ceramic clay fractions -- Vessel-form and technological variation at Pueblo Grande -- A model of Hohokam ceramic production and exchange -- Canal system 2 and classic period communities -- Social change at Pueblo Grande -- A trial model of sociopolitical change -- Layers of understanding
Includes bibliographical references (p. 233-253) and index
LCCN
99006768
LCSH
Pueblo Grande Museum
Hohokam culture--Arizona--Phoenix
Hohokam pottery--Arizona--PhoenixSocial archaeology--Arizona--PhoenixPhoenix (Ariz.)--Antiquities