ANCIENT DIET IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT: THE VIEW FROM HINDS CAVE (41VV456)

ANCIENT DIET IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT:
THE VIEW FROM HINDS CAVE (41VV456)

by Samuel L. Belknap III

Thesis Advisor: Dr. Kristin D. Sobolik

An Abstract of the Thesis Presented
in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the
Degree of Master of Science
(in Quaternary and Climate Studies)
May 2011

Photo Courtesy of Dr. Vaughn M. Bryant Jr. 1975

This study presents on the dynamics of changing diet and changing climate in the Lower Pecos region of Texas over the last 10000 years. It combines ancient dietary information gleaned from ancient human feces, ancient environmental data from various sources with cultural information pertaining to the archaeological populations of the area to provide a clear view of human dietary choices in the context of environmental change. Additionally, by utilizing the latest in genetic techniques this study present new information on what ancient populations in this region were eating.

The results of this study indicate that for the majority of the last 10000 years both climate and culture in the area of the Lower Pecos has undergone relatively little change. However, this study presents information pertaining to a subsistence revolution that occurred during the Middle Archaic period (7000-4000 years ago). The information gathered together in this study shows how a change in food processing techniques, namely earth-oven cooking, during this time potentially lead to an increase in population as well as an increase in cultural complexity as indicated by trade networks and the florescence of ritualistic rock art in the region.