Changing Pacific Island cultures are examined from the time of the earliest human settlement through the stages of complex society existing at the time of early Western contact. The area of SE Asia and the Southwest Pacific provides an early cultural foundation, and out of this, a broad, later dispersal pattern of eastern Pacific islands settlement follows. A regional frame-work will be formulated for discussing the migrations and cultural adaptations made by peoples moving into the Pacific and for clarifying their relationship to complex cultures in mainland Asia. Connections between archaeologically known cultures and historic to modern period island peoples will be explored. Exam format will be both objective and essay.
Attendance is required.
For those needing special assistance with the materials and information presented in class, please see the instructor at the beginning of the term. Documentation of special learning needs is to be established through Oregon Hall. Island Archaeology Class 02. Week 2 4-8 Oct Environment and Resources Class 03. Week 3 11-15 Oct Archaeology and the Cultural Sequences Class 05.