The Archaeological Record of Northwestern North Carolina Through 1769

Boone Before Boone: The Archaeological Record of Northwestern North Carolina Through 1769 (Contributions to Southern Appalachian Studies Book 49)

by Laura Warren Hill

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	15067 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	188 pages

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The archaeological record of northwestern North Carolina is a rich and diverse tapestry woven from the threads of human occupation spanning thousands of years. From the earliest evidence of human presence in the region during the Paleo-Indian period to the arrival of European colonists in the late 18th century, the land and its people have left a lasting legacy that can be glimpsed through the lens of archaeology.

Paleo-Indian Period (10,000-8,000 BCE)

The Paleo-Indian period is the earliest known period of human occupation in North America, and it is characterized by the presence of distinctive stone tools and weaponry. In northwestern North Carolina, Paleo-Indian sites are typically found along river valleys and other areas with access to water and resources. Diagnostic artifacts from this period include fluted projectile points, scrapers, and knives. These tools were used for hunting, gathering, and processing food.

Archaic Period (8,000-1,000 BCE)

The Archaic period is a long and complex period of cultural development in North America. In northwestern North Carolina, the Archaic period is characterized by a shift from a focus on hunting and gathering to a more sedentary lifestyle based on agriculture. Archaic peoples also developed new technologies, such as pottery and bow and arrow, which allowed them to adapt to changing environmental conditions.

Woodland Period (1,000 BCE-1,000 CE)

The Woodland period is characterized by the development of complex societies and the emergence of social hierarchies. In northwestern North Carolina, Woodland peoples built large villages and ceremonial centers and developed a rich artistic tradition. Woodland pottery is often decorated with intricate designs, and Woodland peoples also produced a variety of other artifacts, such as stone pipes, shell beads, and copper ornaments.

Mississippian Period (1,000-1,500 CE)

The Mississippian period is characterized by the emergence of large, complex societies in the southeastern United States. In northwestern North Carolina, the Mississippian period is represented by the construction of several large mound sites, such as Estatoe and Joara. These sites were likely the centers of political and religious power, and they were home to a variety of skilled artisans and craftsmen.

Protohistoric Period (1,500-1,769 CE)

The Protohistoric period is a time of transition between the Mississippian period and the arrival of European colonists. In northwestern North Carolina, the Protohistoric period is characterized by the decline of large mound sites and the emergence of smaller, more dispersed settlements. This period also saw the of new technologies, such as metal tools and weapons, by European traders.

Historic Period (1769-Present)

The Historic period begins with the arrival of European colonists in northwestern North Carolina in the late 18th century. The arrival of colonists had a profound impact on the region's Native American population, who were forced to adapt to new ways of life and defend their land from encroachment.

The archaeological record of the Historic period in northwestern North Carolina includes a variety of sites, including trading posts, forts, and settlements. These sites provide insights into the interactions between Native Americans and Europeans and the ways in which the region's landscape was transformed during this period.

The archaeological record of northwestern North Carolina is a rich and diverse tapestry that tells the story of human occupation in the region for thousands of years. From the earliest evidence of human presence during the Paleo-Indian period to the arrival of European colonists in the late 18th century, the land and its people have left a lasting legacy that can be glimpsed through the lens of archaeology.

The archaeological record of northwestern North Carolina is a valuable resource for learning about the past and understanding the present. By studying the artifacts and sites left behind by our ancestors, we can gain insights into their lives and the ways in which they shaped the world around them.

Boone Before Boone: The Archaeological Record of Northwestern North Carolina Through 1769 (Contributions to Southern Appalachian Studies Book 49)

by Laura Warren Hill

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	15067 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	188 pages

FREE