The World Before 1492 and Early American Cultures

Vocabulary flashcards covering early human migration to the Americas, the Clovis culture, and the Anasazi civilization based on lecture notes.

The World Before 1492

A period characterized by diverse cultures with distinct beliefs, ways of life, dress, speech, and food.

Origins of Early Migration

The movement of early humans from Asia to the Americas by land between Siberia and Alaska, beginning roughly 15,000 to 25,000 years ago.

Clovis Culture

Early immigrants who arrived 13,000 years ago, sought out big game, and maintained trade networks and long-distance travel.

Clovis Point

A spear point first discovered in 1929 near Clovis, New Mexico, believed to be an invention made by early Americans after losing contact with Asia.

Texas Spear Tips

Spear tips discovered in Texas that were found to be at least 15,500 years old.

Anasazi

A Southwestern culture whose name means "ancient ones", who built communities in New Mexico and Arizona 700 years before Columbus arrived.

Anasazi Crops

Cultivated crops including corn, beans, squash, and chilies that led to farming, technology, and specialized jobs.

Chaco Canyon

A major Anasazi hub in New Mexico containing 800 rooms that served as a center for trade and ceremonies.

Anasazi Abandonment Factors

The causes leading to the abandonment of Anasazi communities, specifically drought, war, and protection.