Continuity and change in the societies of the Southern Cone: Mobility and circulation in the North-western and Pampean regions of Argentina (2500 to 500 years BP)

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the use of distant resources, coming from different ecological spaces in the North-western and Pampean regions of Argentina by pre-Hispanic societies, principally during the last 2500 years. The use of certain natural resources that recurrently circulated over time is pointed out, particularly those that act as indicators of the social trajectories on the large chronological and spatial scales outlined. The provenance of mineral, lithic, faunal, and plant resources, especially those used for manufacturing artifacts of different kinds and functionality, are analyzed. The economic, social, and symbolic importance of these materials is highlighted. It means the continuity and deepening of previous reciprocity relations and the existence of social networks between these populations.