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Title: The Role of Northern Belize in Shaping Maya Archaeology
This article addresses the critical role that archaeology in Northern Belize has played in shaping Maya Archaeology. It traces the history of archaeological research in Northern Belize and identifies three areas in which Northern Belize research has transformed the nature of Maya Archaeology. First, excavations at Northern Belize archaeological sites have been critical in providing the empirical evidence for the duration of human occupation in the Maya area. Second, the robust picture of the longevity of human occupation revealed by Northern Belize research provides a concerted challenge to traditional narratives of Maya archaeology, particularly narratives of the “collapse” of Maya society. Third, female leadership in archaeological project direction, artifact analyses, and scholarly publication in Northern Belize broke down barriers for the inclusion of women and other underrepresented groups in archaeology widening the lens of participation and production in archaeology. Across its history, research in Northern Belize has been on the forefront of transformations advancing both the understanding and practice of Maya archaeology.  more » « less
Award ID(s):
1732129
NSF-PAR ID:
10212520
Author(s) / Creator(s):
Date Published:
Journal Name:
Research reports in Belizean archaeology
Volume:
17
Issue:
1
ISSN:
2079-1038
Page Range / eLocation ID:
3-16
Format(s):
Medium: X
Sponsoring Org:
National Science Foundation
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