Abstract
This paper applies statistical methods—Ripley's K-function, kernel density estimates and the chi-squared test—to analyze spatially the distribution of archaeological material within two Palaeo-Eskimo tent rings excavated at the LdFa-1 site on Baffin Island, Nunavut. The purpose of this analysis is to determine if there are any statistically verifiable patterns in the distribution of material at this site. Our results indicate that the material inside the tent rings does not follow the spatial segregation of space as laid out by older Palaeo-Eskimo models nor are there any other statistically relevant patterns. Such results outline why it is important for archaeologists to test for spatial randomness prior to inferring any patterns in the distribution of material. Notable differences between the two dwellings we investigated also suggest that statistical tests can be useful to determine if a dwelling is in fact contemporary with recovered artifacts. Finally, our investigation reveals that the common practice of focusing archaeological excavation efforts on interior units within tent ring structures misses important patterns outside of these features.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
