Theoretical and Methodological Contributions from Researching the Earliest Southeastern Record

Abstract

ABSTRACT We review the contributions of archaeologists studying the Pleistocene and Early Holocene records in the American Southeast. Researchers have made great efforts in finding paleoenvironmental proxies for the past, discovering underwater sites, and embracing a record of isolated point finds. With a renewed interest in technological organization and behavioral ecology, researchers study landscape use as adaptive responses and consider the role of social interaction and cultural connections to those landscapes. Applying middle-range theory and actualistic experiments helps Paleoamerican archaeologists move beyond tool typologies. We track cultural change in the transmission of ideas and spread of practices with methods like geometric morphometrics and use theoretical approaches of cultural transmission theory. We seek to better understand the lifeways of hunter-gatherer communities, including the important roles of women and children in this early record. Finally, Paleoamerican archaeologists are dedicated to conducting research with an ethos of respect for and collaboration with Tribal communities.