essay

Demographic alternatives: consequences for current models of Southwestern prehistory

understanding complexity in the prehistoric southwest • 16 • Published In 1994 • Pages: 113-146

By: Nelson, Ben A., Kohler, Timothy A., Kintigh, Keith W..

Abstract
Nelson et al. discuss some of the problems inherent in estimating prehistoric human populations. They point out weaknesses in current models and why demographic estimates are important for understanding the prehistoric southwest. The biggest problem is understanding site use-life. They use artifact accumulation rates from 14 sites from the Dolores Archaeological Project along with data on architecture and resources to arrive at estimates of how long a site was used and how many people may have lived there.
Subjects
Theoretical orientation in research and its results
Settlement patterns
Processing of basic materials
Household
Community structure
tradition
Early Anasazi
HRAF PubDate
2012
Region
North America
Sub Region
Southwest and Basin
Document Type
essay
Evaluation
Creator Type
Archaeologist
Document Rating
4: Excellent Secondary Data
Analyst
Sarah Berry; 2011
Field Date
not specified
Coverage Date
1400-700 BP (AD 600-1300)
Coverage Place
Dolores Archaeological Project, Colorado, United States
Notes
Ben A. Nelson, Timothy A. Kohler, and Keith W. Kintigh
Includes bibliographical references (p. 139-146)
LCCN
94006317
LCSH
Indians of North America--Southwest, New--Antiquities--Computer simulation
Adaptation (Biology)--Mathematical models
Archaeology--Southwest, New--Methodology
Southwest, New--Antiquities