This project utilized Human Behavioral Ecology (HBE) frameworks to examine how social and ecological factors influenced settlement choices among the ancient Maya of southern Belize, Central America. Specifically, this study compared the processes of community develop among two ancient Maya political centers, Uxbenká and Ix Kuku’il. To study human behaviors in settlement locations in the past, extensive settlement survey and excavations of household structures occurred.  The data from the survey and excavations expanded the known chronology of Ix Kuku’il from AD 400 - 800 to AD 1 – 1000 making Ix Kuku’il of comparable occupation length as Uxbenká (AD 1 – 800). Geospatial analyses indicate that neighborhoods, or smaller intra-site social communities, existed at Uxbenká; similar social groupings were not as easily discernable at Ix Kuku’il.  Furthermore, many of ecological factors were similar on these landscapes and did not deeply influence settlement choice. Rather, social factors played a larger role in the preferred locations of ancient Maya households. At Uxbenká, desirable locations were closer to a major trade route providing the residents of Uxbenká with access to social and economic gods. Living close to family was the most influential factor in settlement location at Ix Kuku’il. This study reflects the diversity of human behaviors of the past and suggests that among seemingly similar cities, community development and social values can vary. The project has resulted in two national conference talks, one international conference presentation, two public talks at museums in New Mexico, one peer reviewed publication in the Journal of Archaeological Science, one book chapter, and two additional peer reviewed publications that are in preparation.

The co-PI of this project worked directly with Mopan Maya of San Jose, Toledo District, Belize. The project advanced knowledge on both the ancient Maya and general human behaviors that are applicable to modern societies while promoting training, teaching, and learning of broadly under-represented groups. The project promoted scientific and archaeological knowledge through a public and community-based archaeology. Community members of San Jose were invited to tour the site of Ix Kuku’il and ongoing excavations to learn and experience archaeology first hand. Cultural heritage programs included an annual Archaeology Day for the community and conducting an archaeology mapping in-class activity at the San Jose school with children grades 5-6. The project was directed in the field by a female scientist who gained experience planning, coordinating, and directing an archaeological project in a foreign nation while collaborating with both local and institutional leadership in Belize.

Last Modified: 03/01/2019
Modified by: Amy E Thompson