Late Prehistoric

Definition

Late prehistoric refers to the period in North American history characterized by the development of complex societies and the use of advanced agricultural practices, which occurred before the arrival of Europeans. This era saw significant cultural advancements, including the establishment of trade networks, social hierarchies, and architectural innovations among various indigenous groups in the Southwest, particularly the Hohokam, Mogollon, and Ancestral Puebloan societies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The late prehistoric period in the Southwest is generally considered to have occurred from around A.D. 900 to A.D. 1500.
2. Hohokam society is known for its extensive irrigation systems that allowed for agriculture in arid regions, which was key to their economic success.
3. Mogollon culture is recognized for its distinctive pottery styles and cliff dwellings, showcasing their advanced architectural techniques.
4. Ancestral Puebloans (formerly known as Anasazi) built impressive multi-story structures made from adobe and stone, often situated on cliff faces or in canyon areas.
5. During the late prehistoric period, these cultures engaged in long-distance trade, exchanging goods such as turquoise, shells, and cotton with neighboring regions.

Review Questions

• How did agricultural practices evolve during the late prehistoric period among the Hohokam, Mogollon, and Ancestral Puebloan societies?
  • Agricultural practices during the late prehistoric period saw significant advancements, particularly among the Hohokam who developed intricate irrigation systems to support farming in arid conditions. The Mogollon utilized dry-farming techniques and developed terraced fields, while Ancestral Puebloans adopted farming methods that included cultivating maize, beans, and squash in diverse environments. This evolution allowed these societies to establish permanent settlements and support larger populations.
• In what ways did trade networks influence the development of complex societies in the late prehistoric Southwest?
  • Trade networks played a crucial role in shaping complex societies during the late prehistoric period by facilitating exchanges of goods, ideas, and cultural practices. These networks connected different groups like the Hohokam, Mogollon, and Ancestral Puebloans, allowing them to access resources not available in their local environments. The exchange of valuable items such as turquoise and pottery contributed to economic stability and social stratification within these communities.
• Evaluate how architectural innovations reflect the social structures of late prehistoric societies in the Southwest.
  • Architectural innovations such as the multi-story cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloans or the large adobe complexes of the Hohokam demonstrate how social structures were intricately tied to these advancements. The complexity of construction required cooperation among community members and indicated a hierarchical organization where leaders likely coordinated large-scale projects. Additionally, these structures served both functional purposes for living and storage as well as symbolic roles that conveyed power and community identity within these late prehistoric societies.

Related terms

Agriculture: The practice of cultivating soil, growing crops, and raising animals for food, which became a cornerstone for complex societies during the late prehistoric period.

Trade Networks: Systems of exchange that connected different communities and regions, facilitating the movement of goods, ideas, and resources among prehistoric societies.

Pottery: Ceramic artifacts produced by indigenous cultures that not only served practical purposes but also reflected artistic expression and social identity during the late prehistoric period.