Abstract

Based on new archaeological data and original analysis of published research, made possible by discoveries at the Paquimé Sky Island site, and using a natural and human systems model for interpretation, I present a comprehensive study for an integrated system of food production among the Paquimé, Anasazi, and Hohokam; this includes structures for the institutional production of fertilizer, the means for both short and long distance transport of grain, and long-term surplus corn storage strategies. I propose that these three cultures during their most highly organized stages produced, transported, and stored many tons of surplus food during good agricultural years. I also present an alternative analysis of public architecture at the Sky Island Paquimé culture site, Pueblo Grande and Wupatki, Arizona, and at Chaco Canyon, New Mexico. I propose a new paradigm for the comprehensive reinterpretation of Hohokam “ballcourts” and some Anasazi/Paquime reservoirs as structures to produce fertilize. I propose a new system of ancient agriculture using the extensive Hohokam canal system in the Salt River Valley at the site of modern day Phoenix. I include an analysis of abstract ceramic and architectural design relating to the religious symbolism of agriculture. I also include an analysis of dietary deficiencies as connected to complex human social systems and centralized city-states in the Oasis America environmental bio-zone. Finally, I provide a condensed summary of the major archaeological papers addressing issues of sophisticated agricultural strategies, scale models that can be tested to demonstrate a scientific outcome, a re-analysis of previous theories based on archaeological research conducted since 1995, and gentile Tarahumara ethnographic reports concerning agricultural strategies as validated by basic sciences as applied to agriculture, hydrology, and climate.

Paquime Granary Row
Cliff Palace Mesa Verde Granary Row
Pueblo Bonito Chaco Granary Row