The Archaeology of early peopling of America or Ancient History of America: How old could be a 'New World'?

Abstract

This text discusses the topic of the early peopling of the Americas as a narrative which extends beyond sites, dates, and artifacts to analyze the discourses constructed from these 'data.' This proposal is based on an archaeological perspective that emphasizes the social dynamics involved in constructing the past. One of the points discussed involves deconstructing the dichotomy between history and prehistory in the Americas; this discussion is based on proposals related to the ideas of deep time and deep history which have already been discussed by historians, archaeologists, and anthropologists in other countries. In addition to a conceptual discussion about the construction of these narratives, we also suggest reflection on methodological aspects of research on contexts related to the times when people initially entered the Americas. Finally, we suggest some points for consideration with regard to constructing an ancient history of the Americas that incorporates different forms of narrative and temporalities which would involve more symmetrical positions for the different groups comprising this history in its construction.