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Wheels of Time: The Middle Archaic and the Medicine Wheels of the Great Plains - Ep 09

In this episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover delves into the fascinating Middle Archaic period through the lens of some of its most enigmatic features: medicine wheels and cairns. Carlton explores the Bighorn Medicine Wheel in Wyoming, the Majorville Cairn and Medicine Wheel in Alberta, and the British Block Cairn and Medicine Wheel in Saskatchewan. These remarkable structures, rich with cultural and spiritual significance, offer a glimpse into the lifeways and belief systems of the Middle Archaic peoples.

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Adapting to Change: The Early Archaic Period on the Great Plains - Ep 08

In this episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover examines the Early Archaic period, a transformative era in the history of the Great Plains. Marked by significant climatic shifts following the end of the Ice Age, this period saw dramatic adaptations in human lifeways. Carlton delves into how these environmental changes influenced hunting strategies, as communities shifted from targeting megafauna to a broader range of game and plant resources. The episode also explores the intensification of space modification, with evidence of advanced land-use strategies emerging during this time. Join us as we uncover how early peoples navigated the evolving landscapes of the Plains and developed innovative solutions to sustain their communities. Whether you're intrigued by climate history, early human ingenuity, or the archaeology of adaptation, this episode sheds light on a pivotal chapter in the Plains’ deep past.

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Indigenous Archaeology: Reclaiming Narratives of the Past - Ep 07

In this episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover dives into the field of Indigenous Archaeology, exploring its roots, principles, and growing impact on the discipline. Indigenous Archaeology is more than just a methodology; it’s a movement to reclaim and represent the histories of Indigenous communities in ways that honor their perspectives and sovereignty. Carlton unpacks how this approach emerged, shaped by Indigenous scholars, activists, and allies who advocate for a respectful, community-centered archaeology that reflects the voices and values of Native peoples. He discusses how Indigenous Archaeology reshapes research practices, challenges traditional narratives, and fosters collaborations that benefit both Indigenous communities and the field as a whole. Tune in to discover how Indigenous Archaeology offers new paths for understanding the past and why it’s essential for creating a more inclusive archaeological record. Whether you're new to the concept or eager to deepen your understanding, this episode is an enlightening exploration of how archaeology is transforming from within.

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  • For rough transcripts of this episode, go to: https://www.archpodnet.com/great-plains-archaeology/01

  • For a transcript of this episode, tap the Zencastr icon on in the upper left corner of the Podcast image.

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Presenting Indigenous Archaeology on the World Stage: Reflections from JAGFOS 2024 in Kyoto, Japan - Plains 06

In this special episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover shares his experiences presenting his work in Indigenous Archaeology at the 2024 Japanese-American-German Frontiers of Science Symposium cohosted by the National Academy of Sciences (U.S.), the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), and the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (Germany). This prestigious gathering brings together researchers from a variety of disciplines and backgrounds, offering Carlton a unique opportunity to introduce the archaeology of the Great Plains to a global, multi-disciplinary audience. Carlton reflects on the challenges and rewards of communicating Indigenous perspectives to a broader scientific community, discussing how cross-cultural dialogue enriches our understanding of archaeology and the narratives of the past. Tune in to hear insights from his presentation, the conversations it sparked, and his takeaways from engaging with international scholars. Whether you’re interested in Indigenous Archaeology or the role of science in cross-cultural exchange, this episode provides a firsthand account of sharing Plains history and Indigenous perspectives on a world stage.

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Hell Gap: A Window into Paleoindian Life on the Great Plains - Ep 05

In this episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover takes listeners to one of the most significant Paleoindian sites in North America: the Hell Gap National Historic Landmark. Located in eastern Wyoming, Hell Gap has provided a treasure trove of archaeological insights into the earliest inhabitants of the Great Plains. Carlton explores the history of this iconic site, from its discovery in the 1950s to its designation as a National Historic Landmark, highlighting its importance in understanding Paleoindian culture. We’ll delve into the various Paleoindian components uncovered at Hell Gap, including artifacts from Clovis, Folsom, and other key traditions, and discuss how these finds have helped archaeologists reconstruct lifeways, tool technologies, and hunting strategies. The episode also features a history of the site’s excavations, from the groundbreaking early digs to more recent research efforts. Whether you're fascinated by ancient history or want to learn more about how sites like Hell Gap shape our understanding of the Paleoindian past, this episode offers a captivating look at one of the Great Plains' most remarkable archaeological landmarks.

Youtube: https://youtu.be/EvzAaRURSSg

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The First Peoples: Uncovering the Paleoindian Legacy on the Great Plains - Plains 04

In this episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover explores the fascinating Paleoindian period, focusing on the earliest known peoples to inhabit the Great Plains. These pioneering groups adapted to the Ice Age environment, hunting megafauna like mammoths and bison, and leaving behind some of the most iconic archaeological sites in North America. Carlton delves into the discovery of key Paleoindian sites, including Clovis and Folsom, which provide insights into the lifeways, tools, and migration patterns of these early hunters. This episode takes listeners on a journey through time, unraveling the mysteries of the First Peoples and the lasting legacy they've left on the Great Plains landscape. Whether you're an archaeology enthusiast or curious about the ancient history of North America, this deep dive into the Paleoindian period will captivate and inform.

Youtube: https://youtu.be/uHE45rdZ0GU

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Tracing Time on the Plains: From Paleoindian to Ceramic Periods - Plains 03

In this episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover provides an overview of the major cultural periods that have shaped the Great Plains' rich history. Starting with the Paleoindian period, we delve into the earliest known inhabitants, exploring their hunting practices and survival strategies in a changing landscape. We then journey through the Archaic period, marked by a shift in subsistence strategies and adaptation to diverse environments. As we move into the Woodland period, we'll discuss the introduction of new technologies and social complexities, followed by the Plains Village period, where agricultural practices and settled communities became more prominent. Carlton also introduces listeners to the concept of the Ceramic Period, which combines the Woodland and Plains Village periods, highlighting the evolution of pottery and other cultural developments that defined this era. This episode offers a brief look at the timeline of human occupation on the Great Plains, providing insights into how these periods are interconnected and how they have been interpreted through the archaeological record. Whether you're new to Plains archaeology or looking to deepen your understanding of these cultural periods, this episode offers a fascinating exploration of the region's past.

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Introducing the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast!

Welcome to the inaugural episode of "The Great Plains Archaeology Podcast." Join your host, Carlton Shield Chief Gover, as he sets the stage for an immersive journey through the heart of North America's Great Plains. In this introduction, discover what this podcast is all about and what you can expect in the episodes to come. He'll delve into the latest archaeological discoveries, explore past cultures, and uncover the historical insights that shape our understanding of this vast and storied region. From ancient artifacts to the echoes of Indigenous civilizations, get ready to be transported to the hidden past of the Great Plains. Whether you're an archaeology enthusiast, history buff, or simply a curious mind, this episode will whet your appetite for the fascinating stories waiting to be unearthed. Tune in and start exploring the mysteries of the Great Plains with Carlton.

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