Ancient West Mexicos

Abstract

This introductory chapter provides a brief history of research on ancient west Mexico and outlines traditional archaeological conceptions of the region as exotic, unique, or “other.” It also provides a preliminary definition and spatial delimitation of the vast area known as “the west,” and a short discussion of regional chronology. In doing so, it contextualizes the constituent chapters of the volume within broader archaeological debates regarding the nature of pre-Hispanic societies in west Mexico and their role in larger, pan-Mesoamerican sociocultural processes. Like the volume itself, the introduction highlights the spatial, temporal, and cultural diversity evident throughout the region’s history. Finally, the introduction provides brief summaries of the chapters that comprise the volume, foregrounding the dialogue among the contributions and foreshadowing the synthesis presented in the conclusions, thus aiding in binding a diverse collection into a coherent whole.

The Built Environment and the Development of Intermediate Socio-Spatial Units at Los Guachimontones, Jalisco, Mexico

“…The various analyses of ceramics recovered from excavation concur with the models. The assemblages are dominated by large jars and undecorated serving ware, as opposed to individual, highly decorated bowls intended to exhibit wealth as a form of conspicuous consumption (Beekman 2020:82–87; Johns 2014; Tyndall 2008). The combination of both sets of data indicate that public ritual events and consumption of food took place inside guachimontones .…”

“…Los Guachimontones is the only site that has been excavated extensively in the Tequila region, and analyses of the chronological sequence are still in their infancy. Based on a series of methods that included architectural stratigraphy, radiocarbon dating, and analyses of excavated ceramic debris, figures, figurine fragments, and vessels from offerings, burials, and stratigraphic pits (Beekman 2020:67), I am able to note some trends that illuminate the construction sequence. At Los Guachimontones, the first settlement was a household (La Joyita) currently understood as an elite residence (Herrejón 2008).…”

“…Patio IV is a large, formal residential group that, given its size, represents a potential elite residence. The ceramic assemblage, however, does not provide any significant clues to differentiate this structure from the public architecture (Beekman 2020; Esparza and Weigand 2008). The trend in the construction sequence, with the dates currently available at the site, begins with the establishment of a residence, followed by public architecture.…”