The role that bipolar reduction played in prehistoric lithic technology is a problem frequently discussed by archaeologists. However, the fundamental problem of identifying debris produced by this method has not been addressed adequately. Experimentally produced chipped-stone debris assemblages are analyzed in a blind test to determine if it is possible to distinguish between bipolar and free-hand, hard-hammer reduction techniques. The analysis shows that manufacturing technique can be distinguished between unmixed assemblages but that individual pieces of debris cannot be ascribed to one technique or the other with confidence. Attribute profiles for bipolar versus free-hand, hard-hammer debitage assemblages are developed and applied to data sets from the Koster and Deer Track sites in west-central Illinois. The analysis suggests that bipolar reduction may have played a role in lithic reduction during the Middle Archaic and that this scheme may help to delineate special use or activity areas within sites.
The Midcontinental Journal of Archaeology, first published in 1976, is the official publication of the Midwest Archaeological Conference, Inc. The journal publishes original papers on the archaeology of the region between the Appalachian Mountains and the Great Plains, and from the Boreal Forests to the mid-South, or closely related topical issues. While the journal focuses on the publication of new and primary prehistoric and historic period archaeological data from this heartland region of the United States and Canada, it also regularly publishes on broader theoretical and methodological issues relevant to an understanding of the archaeology of the midcontinent. Papers are analytic, often incorporate cutting edge field and laboratory methods, applied in clear theoretical, problem oriented contexts. Most journal volumes consist of stand-alone articles, but the MCJA occasionally publishes volumes of papers that address specific themes, sites, or topics.
The University of Illinois Press is one of the leading publishers of humanities and social sciences journals in the country. Founded in 1918, the Press publishes more than 40 journals representing 18 societies, along with more than 100 new books annually. Our publication program covers a wide range of disciplines including psychology, philosophy, Black studies, women's studies, cultural studies, music, immigration, and more. Current issues are available through the Scholarly Publishing Collective. The Press is a founding member of the Association of University Presses.
This item is part of a JSTOR Collection.
For terms and use, please refer to our
Midcontinental Journal of Archaeology
© 1993 University of Illinois Press