The use of stable isotopes in the identification of prehispanic migrants: an example in the Tula Valley and Teotihuacan

Abstract

This paper approaches the problem of migrant groups identification in pre – Hispanic contexts, and how the application of stable oxygen isotope analysis has provided new interpretative paths to study them. Based on some archaeometric studies conducted in Mesoamerican populations of the Central Highlands during the Classic period, it is reviewed the aspects in which migration and ethnic identity have been delineated in archaeology from material evidence and how bone samples can contribute to achieve interpretations about the life of ancient populations.