Terminal pleistocene lithic technology and use of space in central chile

Abstract

We synthesize lithic evidence from terminal Pleistocene sites in Central Chile (~31-34° S). Quebrada Santa Julia, Valiente, Taguatagua 1 and Taguatagua 2 sites show diverse assemblages, which are not fully understood by a traditional typological approach. This diversity can be better explained due to variations in discard rates, raw material availability, and site function. This approach allows the consideration of early hunter-gatherer occupations as integrated segments of a two-stage evolving use of space/mobility system.