The Development of Complex Societies in Eastern North America: The Roles of Feasting, Famine, and Fighting

Abstract

In this paper, we examine reasons for the diverse historical trajectories observed in Eastern North America over the period of human occupation, from the late Pleistocene until European contact some 500 years ago. The chronological framework and period ranges employed in this paper come from recent regional syntheses (Anderson 2001; Anderson and Sassaman 2012; Anderson et al. 2015; Sassaman 2010a), and all dates are reported as calendar years before present, or cal year BP (Table 11.1). A diverse array of societies were present in the region throughout prehistory, varying in size, complexity, subsistence, and material cul- ture. The regional archaeological record was shaped by colonization and settlement history; population movement; long distance exchange and interaction; incidence and intensity of warfare; regional political geography; ideological, social, and material innovations; and changes in climate, physiography, and biota. While there were no single 'prime movers' driving societal change, the frequently interrelated aspects of social life involving feasting, redressing famine, and fighting or warfare, the subjects of this volume, were particularly important.