Changes and Stays Around the Agricultural Dispersion Process in the Central Hills of Argentina

Abstract

A synthesis and integration of archaeological data on the process of agricultural dispersal in the central region of Argentina during the Late Holocene is performed. In contrast to the more widespread visions that emphasized changes allegedly associated with the adoption of agriculture, the limited nature of agricultural production and its consequences is affirmed, as well as strong continuities with the past. Slow and gradual introduction of domesticated plants like maize (c. 3000-2500 BP), probably obtained by local foragers through exchanges with neighboring farmers is observed. Gradual incorporation of technologies like ceramic is also registered. The introduction of small-scale crops and other innovations in a late stage of the Pre-hispanic Period, c. 1000-900 BP, were integrated into cultural logic and way of life in the pursuit of its conservation. However long-term more or less profound transformations were produced by the accumulation of interrelated changes.