Method and Theory in the Peopling of the Americas

Catalog description

Credits 3. 3 Lecture Hours. COURSE OVERVIEW. Reviews current evidence from the fields of archaeology, genetics, biological anthropology and paleoecology for the dispersal of modern humans to the New World during the Pleistocene. Examines terminal Pleistocene cultures in Asia and the earliest sites in the Americas. Discusses various models proposed for this migration. Critically examines major archaeological sites and cultures. Stresses an interdisciplinary approach. Applies theory and method used to explain prehistoric human migration and colonization of empty lands. TOPICS AND THEMES. Pleistocene Americas; ancient DNA; paleoenvironments; radiocarbon dating; archaeological modeling; lithic analysis; ethnographic analogy; zooarchaeology and extinctions; archaeological site formation processes; critical analysis of fragmentary data; statistical analysis. This course will incorporate topics that respond to current events, student interests or emerging issues relevant to the peopling of the Americas. Course content may include complex or sensitive topics and is designed to foster respectful, evidence-based discussion and critical engagement with multiple perspectives, skills essential for navigating a diverse and changing world. Prerequisite: Graduate classification.