Michael A. Malpass's clear and engaging writing, emphasis on explaining how archaeologists make interpretations, and discussion of alternative explanations of the Andean past make this an ideal book for undergraduate courses or people interested in an introduction to Andean prehistory.
Cynthia Klink, SUNY Oneonta Michael A. Malpass has given his colleagues and fellow instructors of Andean archaeology ... Read morea fine text with exceptionally broad and inclusive coverage of the diverse array of pre-Hispanic cultures that developed up and down the cordillera of western South America. Using his own recipe to create this textbook based on personal classroom observations, Malpass finds just the right blend of theoretical depth and reader-accessibility with a writing style that is clear, engaging, and infused with infectious enthusiasm.
Warren Church, Columbus State University In Ancient People of the Andes, Michael A. Malpass offers a balanced synthesis of the archaeological and historical record bearing on fundamental questions being addressed by contemporary scholars exploring an area of the Americas that has undergone explosive growth: How and why did Andean cultures develop into complex civilizations and to what extent did environmental and climate change play a role? Happily, there are more people than pots in archaeologist Malpass's book. A seasoned teacher as well, Malpass gives us a welcome, jargon-free narrative that differs from the ordinary by being highly student-oriented, yet his work will also appeal to readers well outside the classroom.
Anthony Aveni, Russell Colgate Distinguished University Professor of Astronomy, Anthropology, and Native American Studies, Colgate University Ancient People of the Andes is a tour de force of synthesis and impressive scholarship on central Andean archaeology, from the earliest colonists to the Inka Empire. This book will appeal to all those interested in the magnificent civilizations that arose from sea level to the Andean peaks over the millennia.
James B. Richardson III, University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Museum of Natural History, author of People of the Andes The goal of discussing the ancient societies o the Central Andes or South America through theoretical debates is fulfilled... by Malpass.... Offers ample opportunities for students to navigate various interpretive possibilitiesafforded by the archaeological record, and it can be a very useful educationaltool in that sense.
Latin American antiquity
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