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Classic to postclassic in highland central Mexico
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|March 17, 1972
Summary
The abandonment of Teotihuacan led to a period of Balkanization in the highlands, with distinct ceramic cultures emerging in the Mexico and Puebla-Tlaxcala valleys. This fragmentation ended with the rise of empires.
Area of Science:
- Archaeology
- Mesoamerican Studies
- Ceramic Analysis
Background:
- The decline of Teotihuacan (Teotihuacan IV) marked a significant shift in highland central Mexico.
- Understanding the subsequent ceramic development and political landscape is crucial for Mesoamerican archaeology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the ceramic culture following Teotihuacan's abandonment.
- To investigate the political and settlement patterns in the transitional horizon.
- To determine the factors influencing cultural distinctions between regions.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of ceramic typologies and derivations from Teotihuacan.
- Examination of settlement pattern changes and evidence of political disruption.
- Comparative study of cultural traits in the Valley of Mexico and Puebla-Tlaxcala.
Main Results:
- A new ceramic culture emerged, showing Teotihuacan influence alongside Preclassic elements, predating plumbate tradeware.
- Significant settlement pattern changes indicated political disruption, but no single center dominated.
- A cultural distinction developed between the Valley of Mexico and Puebla-Tlaxcala, intensifying in the early Postclassic.
Conclusions:
- Teotihuacan's abandonment resulted in a Balkanized highland political landscape, not direct domination by another power.
- Regional cultural distinctions solidified, eventually leading to the end of Balkanization with the rise of empires.
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