AbstractsAnthropology

Over the span of its history, the ancient Maya site of Chan Chich, in northwestern Belize underwent drastic shifts in its political, economic, and social environment. A total of 28 days of excavations in the site core of Chan Chich, and subsequent analyses, have generated extensive data sets pertaining to the form, function, and chronology of Courtyard A-3, also known as the Back Plaza and its associated structures. Extensive excavations have revealed the relationship between the Back Plaza and the rest of the site core. The material assemblage collected indicates that Courtyard A-3 functioned as a food preparation area. Numerous ground stones, utilitarian vessels, ceramic water jugs, bifaces, recycled spear points and faunal remains were uncovered at the site. Structures A-23 and A-25 were multi-roomed substructures with thatch roofing constructed during the Late Classic period (600-810 CE) and occupation continued into the Terminal Classic period AD (810-900 CE). Advisors/Committee Members: Walter, Tamra L. (committee member), Houk, Brett A. (Committee Chair).