Monte Albán periods iiib-iv and the Zapotecs

Abstract

This paper focuses on the conceptual framework that underlies Oaxaca’s archaeological periodization and the cultural process proposed for Monte Albán’s periods IIIB and IV. A critical look at Caso, Bernal and Acosta’s development scheme reveals that this city diverged from other sites in the valley, where the interaction of different ethnic groups generated a rather complex social system. Although the results of extensive surface surveys question the use of an ethnic approach to archaeology, without it the discipline is at risk to devote itself only to the classification of objects and their display in museums.