Excavations (Archaeology)--Ecuador

This thesis studies a ceramic assemblage recently excavated at Rio Chico (OMJPLP170), a coastal multi-component site situated in Southern Manabi, Ecuador. Stratigraphic excavations provided the data for analysis, which primarily consisted of utilitarian wares that were examined within the archaeological context. Ceramic utilitarian wares were used to reconstruct the cultural sequence at Rio Chico, dating from the Early Formative Period Valdivia Phase to the Integration Period Manteno Phase, and to assess the use of space throughout the occupation. Additionally, ceramic vessel reconstruction provided insights about the types of activities and behavioral patterns of the prehispanic inhabitants of Rio Chico in each cultural phase. A comparative study of Rio Chico (OMJPLP170) and the adjacent site of Salango (OMJPLP140-141) aided in establishing possible cultural correlations between the two sites. As a result, similarities and differences were noted between the prehispanic settlements of both sites throughout their occupation.

Archaeological Site 035 Tomb, located in Salango, Ecuador contains remains associated with the Manteno culture which flourished during the Integration period from A.D. 500 until the Spanish Conquest in 1532. Although agriculture played a role in the diet of these people, marine resources were utilized for both food and trade. Osteological remains of at least 14 individuals were excavated from this site and examined to determine the variation in the population of this region. The following four sites were used as comparisons to the Salango site based on their geographical location and their temporal relationship to Salango: Real Alto, Ayalan, La Libertad, and La Tolita. These sites were analyzed to determine how agriculture and environment played a role in their health and nutrition. This study indicates that pre-Colombian cultures of the region may not have been entirely integrated and that the various populations may have engaged in varied lifestyles.