The people known to archaeologists as the Ohio Hopewell built large numbers of earthen constructions including mounds, enclosures, and roads in Ohio and adjacent areas. Their sites which date between 200 BC and AD 450 have been said to be mysteries, but archaeology has shown how they fit into the indigenous past. These people had a mixed economy relying on wild foods as well as gardening, and they also made finely crafted pottery, beautiful smoking pipes, and other interesting artifacts. They traded with other people throughout much of North America, and they practiced elaborate rituals. Who were these people and what have archaeologists learned about their beliefs and lifestyle? Eight of the most significant Ohio Hopewell sites were enrolled as World Heritage sites by UNESCO in 2023. This course will be an introduction to Ohio Hopewell archaeology and cultural reconstruction as well as to the recent World Heritage designation.
((Sarah Neusius - In Person: CMU Campus - Tuesday))
