Anthropologist Dr. Clara Zhang investigated the social functions of pottery decorative patterns among the ancient Puebloans in the American Southwest during the Pueblo III period (c. 1150–1300 CE). Some scholars argue that these complex geometric designs served primarily to identify individual household lineage. However, Zhang hypothesizes that the designs functioned as shared regional symbols to facilitate cooperative trade alliances between distinct communities during periods of resource scarcity.
Which finding, if true, would most directly support Zhang's hypothesis?
- Pottery vessels featuring identical geometric patterns were widely exchanged between distant settlements only during years of severe drought, whereas household-specific utility vessels remained local.Answer
- BClay analysis shows that pottery vessels with complex geometric designs were constructed using more durable materials than vessels with simpler designs.
- CPuebloan trade alliances likely dissolved when communities migrated to areas with more abundant water sources and ceased producing decorated pottery.
- DThe evolution of pottery manufacturing techniques in the American Southwest allowed communities to increase their overall artistic production over several centuries.
Answer
Pottery vessels featuring identical geometric patterns were widely exchanged between distant settlements only during years of severe drought, whereas household-specific utility vessels remained local.
The correct answer provides direct support for the hypothesis by demonstrating that pottery with these specific geometric patterns was exchanged between distant communities during times of environmental stress (droughts). This establishes a clear link between the design patterns and inter-community cooperation during resource scarcity.
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