Feathered Gods and Fishhooks: The Archaeology of Ancient Hawai‘i

The first edition of Feathered Gods and Fishhooks was the pioneering synthesis of ancient Hawaiian civilization from an archaeological perspective. This revised edition now brings the field up-to-date, incorporating the results from hundreds of archaeological projects undertaken throughout the Hawaiian Islands over the past thirty-five years. It provides an authoritative account of the origins and progression of Hawaiian culture prior to the arrival of Europeans, and is generously illustrated with new photographs, maps, and color plates. The book explores a wide range of topics, including material culture, agricultural systems, population size, ritual architecture, diversity in landscapes, and archaeological evidence for historical transformations following European contact. It is an indispensable resource on the history of ancient Hawaiʻi, with an extensive bibliography that guides hundreds of often difficult-to-locate reports and publications on Hawaiian archaeology.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 31 October 2023
Publisher: University of Hawai'i Press

The first edition of Feathered Gods and Fishhooks was a groundbreaking synthesis of ancient Hawaiian civilization from an archaeological perspective. This long-awaited revised edition, now updated with the latest findings from hundreds of archaeological projects across the Hawaiian Islands over the past thirty-five years, presents an authoritative account of the origins and progression of Hawaiian culture before the arrival of Europeans.

Generously illustrated with dozens of new photographs, maps, and color plates, this revision offers a comprehensive synthesis of Hawaiian archaeology that is accessible to the interested layperson while providing detailed insights for professional archaeologists.

The book begins with an explanation of archaeological practice in Hawai'i, spanning from antiquarian pursuits in the late nineteenth century to the development of modern research techniques. It considers the recent tensions surrounding the shift of archaeology from an academic endeavor to a professional consulting enterprise.

Following a review of environmental constraints and opportunities, as well as the main types of archaeological evidence, the book delves into the latest information on the first Polynesian settlement of Hawai'i. To achieve a holistic view, it explores a wide range of topics, including material culture, agricultural systems, population size, ritual architecture variations, landscape diversity, and archaeological evidence for historical transformations following European contact.

The final chapters summarize the key findings and offer insights into the future of Hawaiian archaeology. Feathered Gods and Fishhooks remains a vital resource for anyone interested in understanding the rich cultural heritage of Hawai'i.

Weight: 1126g
Dimension: 179 x 253 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780824894498
Edition number: 2 Revised edition