Southwestern Archaeology

Southwestern archaeology studies the ancient cultures and civilizations of the American Southwest, particularly those of the Pueblo peoples, ancient farmers, and hunter-gatherers. This region includes parts of modern-day Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado. Archaeologists investigate artifacts, structures, and features like irrigation systems and cliff dwellings to understand how these groups lived, their social structures, and their interactions with the environment. Key sites, such as Chaco Canyon and Mesa Verde, provide insights into their complex societies, trade networks, and cultural practices, contributing to our broader understanding of human history and adaptation in diverse landscapes.