Structure and regional diversity of the Meadowood Interaction Sphere

In northeastern North America, elaboration of mortuary ceremonialism and the widespread distribution of Onondaga chert bifaces during the Early Woodland period (3,000-2,400 BP) have been attributed to the development of the Meadowood Interaction Sphere. The mechanisms underlying the flow of goods and ideas, the structure of the network, and the incentives of the participating groups, however, remain poorly understood. This study aims at discriminating between ritual, economic, and socio-political interpretations of the Meadowood Interaction Sphere through a pan-regional survey of its manifestations. The ritual model defines Meadowood as a “Burial Cult” and ascribes the sharing of traits to the diffusion of religious ideas and cult items. According to the economic model, alliances between groups are based on economic reciprocity and serve to increase the stability of local subsistence systems. The socio-political model involves successful traders increasing their status through their ability to obtain prestige items. To evaluate these scenarios, this research examines Meadowood material manifestations, their contexts of use, the spatial distribution of sites and artefacts, as well as subsistence strategies and social organization. The role of Meadowood trade goods as prestige items is supported by their fine craftsmanship and their occurrence in both residential and mortuary/gathering contexts. Meadowood manifestations concentrate in resource-rich areas, where communities have the greatest potential to produce surpluses and develop socioeconomic inequalities. Moreover, this study demonstrates an increasing dependence on abundant and predictable resources. Also significant is the recognition of distinct regional networks, where Meadowood groups are strategically located to act as “middlemen” between Atlantic and Midwestern communities. Finally, the presence of burial precincts distinct from habitation sites, variability in mortuary treatments and grave good distributions, and evidence of funerary feasts reflect social inequalities, ownership, and competitive displays of success. The data presented in this study converge on socio-political forces being the major underlying factors for the establishment of Early Woodland interregional networks in northeastern North America. The development of socioeconomic inequalities and an attempt by individuals or corporate groups to enhance their status through privileged access to rare goods were central in maintaining the contacts that constitute the essence of the Meadowood Interaction Sphere.