| Ref ID: | 31898 |
|---|---|
| Ref Type: | Journal Article |
| Authors: | Anderson, Atholl Sinoto, Yosihiko |
| Title: | New radiocarbon ages of colonization sites in east Polynesia |
| Date: | 2002 |
| Source: | Asian Perspectives (2002) |
| Notes: | Special Issue: Eastern Polynesia |
| Abstract: | The archaeological chronology of initial human colonization in East Polynesia has relied substantially upon radiocarbon dating results from a small number of sites in the central region, notably Motu Paeao cemetery (Maupiti) and Vaitootia-Faahia (Huahine) in the Society Islands, and Hane (Ua Huka) and Haatuatua (Nuku Hiva) in the Marquesas Islands. Recent field research and new radiocarbon dates showed that Haatuatua and Motu Paeao were occupied significantly later than had been suggested by earlier results. We now report the results of new radiocarbon dating on the remaining two sites. Leaving aside questionable results on bone and wood samples, six shell samples from Vaitootia-Faahia indicate occupation in the period a.d. 10501450. five shell and five charcoal samples from Hane indicate that occupation did not begin earlier than about a.d. 1000. Taken together with other recent research on the chronology of initial colonization in East Polynesia we suggest that habitation did not begin until a.d. 900 or later. |
| Date Created: | 10/19/2003 |
| Volume: | 41 |
| Number: | 2 |
| Page Start: | 242 |
| Page End: | 257 |