Abstract

Since the late 1970s, household archaeology has become a key theoretical and methodological framework for research on the development of permanent social inequality and complexity, as well as for understanding the social, political and economic organization of chiefdoms and states. This volume is the cumulative result of more than a decade of research focusing on household archaeology as a means to gain understanding of the evolution of social complexity, regardless of underlying economy.

“This volume represents an unprecedented collection of NWC household data presented in well-written and informative papers. The authors persuasively demonstrate the utility of the household as an analytical unit for interpreting past social dynamics in the region… it is an indispensable volume for anyone interested in NWC households and the intriguing research directed at understanding these complex and ancient social institutions.” • Chris Springer, The Midden

“If you are interested in household archaeology, this is an important volume to have on your bookshelf.” • R.G. Matson, Canadian Journal of Archaeology

D. Ann Trieu Gahr is an author/researcher in archaeology.

Kenneth A. Ames is a Professor in the Anthropology Department at Portland State University.


Elizabeth A. Sobel is a Professor in the Sociology and Anthropology Department at Missouri State University.