The Indigenous Paleolithic of the Western Hemisphere

The book "The Indigenous Paleolithic of the Western Hemisphere" by Paulette F. C. Steeves challenges the notion that people only arrived in the Western Hemisphere during the Clovis period and argues that they have been there for over 60,000 years, likely even longer. Steeves discusses the political history of American anthropology and highlights the work of archaeologists who have excavated and reported on pre-Clovis sites. The book incorporates Indigenous oral traditions, archaeological evidence, and a critical discussion of archaeology in the Americas.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 03 April 2023
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

The Indigenous Paleolithic of the Western Hemisphere is a groundbreaking exploration of the rich history of Indigenous people in North and South America during the Paleolithic era. Through meticulous research and analysis, Paulette F. C. Steeves uncovers evidence from archaeological sites, Paleolithic environments, landscapes, and mammalian and human migrations, challenging the conventional narrative that humans first arrived in the Western Hemisphere only during the Clovis period (10,200 years ago).

Steeves argues that people have been inhabiting the Western Hemisphere for over 60,000 years, and possibly even more than 100,000 years. She delves into the political history of American anthropology, shedding light on why pre-Clovis sites have been disregarded for nearly a century. She explores supporting evidence from genetics and linguistic anthropology, shedding light on the origins and timelines of early migrations among First Peoples.

Furthermore, Steeves highlights the remarkable work and struggles of a small but dedicated group of American and European archaeologists who have excavated and documented numerous pre-Clovis archaeology sites. In this pioneering book on Paleolithic archaeology in the Americas, Steeves incorporates Indigenous oral traditions, archaeological evidence, and a critical and decolonizing discussion of the development of archaeology in the region.

Through her meticulous research and compelling storytelling, The Indigenous Paleolithic of the Western Hemisphere offers a fresh perspective on the deep past of Indigenous people and contributes to our understanding of human history and diversity.

Weight: 506g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496234704