History and Archaeology of Ancient Latin America

Catalog description

Exploration of ancient Latin American civilizations and early Europeans in the region through archaeological and historical analysis. Major themes include migrations of people into the Western hemisphere, the rise and decline of states and empires such as the Maya, Aztecs, Moche, and Incas, inter-regional trade, development of writing and communication systems, religious ideology, social and political infrastructure and mechanisms of control. Unique cultural forms discussed include mummies, pyramids, military techniques, political propaganda, and agricultural innovation. Contemporary issues addressed include media representations of the past, indigenous rights, and looting and destruction of cultural property.