Archaeological Research on Kosrae (eastern Caroline Islands)

Cordy, Ross (1982-01-01). "Archaeological Research on Kosrae (eastern Caroline Islands)". Bulletin of the Indo-pacific Prehistory Association. 3 (0): 129–134. doi:https://doi.org/10.7152/bippa.v3i0.11198 . ISSN 0156-1316 1835-1794, 0156-1316 .

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Abstract: “Archaeological Research on Kosrae (eastern Caroline Islands)” provides a detailed account of archaeological investigations conducted on Kosrae since 1979. The research focuses on the prehistoric development of complex hierarchical societies in Micronesia, particularly on how systems like the one on Kosrae, which had up to four strata, developed over time. The main research site is Lelu, where significant archaeological activities have been conducted under the supervision of the article’s author in collaboration with Kosrae Historic Preservation Office and other partners.

The article outlines various methods, including surveys and excavations, to reconstruct social organization, settlement patterns, and community activities in both Lelu and the main island. Excavations revealed three types of compounds in Lelu: residential, mortuary, and sacred, with the mortuary compounds linked to the royal family. The architectural study included analysis of Lelu’s walls, showing distinct styles and features differing from other sites like Nan Madol. Additionally, the research also covered the demographic aspects of historical Kosrae and aimed to reconstruct labor distribution and social strata through archaeological findings. The summary indicates that the work progressed into final analysis and report writing by 1981, with plans for future excavations to provide more insights into early settlements and hierarchy.

Extra details:

MAG: 2037969968
OpenAlex: W2037969968
CorpusID: 162214941