The
South Florida Chapter of the
Archaeological Institute of America
2007-2008 Lecture Series
Tombs for the Ancestors:
Adding the Bioarchaeological
Dimension
by Jane E. Buikstra
Friday,
October 12th at 7pm
Location: Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton Campus, Social
Science Building, Room 250
Lecture Summary:
Through a series of four case studies, we explore the manner
in which bioarchaeological research enhances our knowledge
of ancient Americans. Our first two examples are contextualized
in the South-Central Andes, where we consider the manner
in which diet, gender, and political relationships are
interpreted
through the study of tombs and their contents. Secondly,
we explore host-pathogen relationships for infectious
disease
(ancient American tuberculosis), as revealed through skeletal
changes and molecular biology. Thirdly, we consider the manner
in which biochemical analyses inform our study of the political
forces that influenced the founding of the ancient Maya Classic
dynasty at the site of Copán (Honduras). Finally,
we illustrate the way in which new methods resolve the persistent
controversy that surrounds the identity of the remains entombed
in the Temple of the Inscriptions at the site of Palenque
(Chiapas),
attributed to the influential dynastic ruler, Hanab Pakal.
For
more information, please contact:
Peter
Ferdinando
Coordinator, AIA-South Florida
pferdinando@pbmnh.org
