Mixtecs, Zapotecs, and Chatinos: Ancient Peoples of Southern Mexico

“Mixtecs, Zapotecs, and Chatinos: Ancient Peoples of Southern Mexico” examines the history of the rich and complex societies that arose and flourished in the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca. Shortly after its founding as a hilltop epicenter of Zapotec culture in about 500 bc, Monte Alban became what is widely considered to be the first city in the Highlands of Mexico. Yet between 300 bc and ad 800, many other powerful urban polities developed in the disparate geographic regions surrounding the Valley of Oaxaca, including in the highland valleys of the Mixteca and lower Rio Verde Valley along the Pacific Coast. By drawing upon the most recent archaeological, ethnographic, epigraphic, linguistic, and iconographic evidence, “Mixtecs, Zapotecs, and Chatinos” reveals the lengthy, complex strands of historical and cultural interactions woven among the diverse pre-Hispanic societies of Oaxaca. Along with comparing patterns in the settlement, art, architecture, and writing that developed in these regions, Joyce also uses contemporary social theory to challenge previous approaches and address many key problems in the archaeology of the Americas such as the rise and fall of civilizations and the role of religion and ideology in political control.

Informed by thoughtful analysis of recent evidence, anthropological breakthroughs, and ongoing fieldwork, “Mixtecs, Zapotecs, and Chatinos” will add clarity to the debates surrounding ancient Mesoamerican civilizations.