This Timeline of the Preceramic Period is Part II of the Andean Timeline.
- Part I: Introduction
- Part III: Initial through Late Horizon
- Preceramic Period I (before 9500 BC): First evidence of human occupation of Peru comes from groups of hunter-gatherers in the highlands of Ayacucho and Ancash. Fluted fishtail projectile points represent the most widespread lithic technology.
- Preceramic Period II (9500 – 8000 BC): this period is characterized by a widespread biface stone tool technology on the highlands and on the coast. Examples of this tradition are the Chivateros (I) industry and the long and narrow Paijan points. Other important sites are: Ushumachay, Telarmachay, Pachamachay.
- Preceramic Period III (8000 – 6000 BC): From this period, it is possible to recognize different cultural tradition, such as the Northwestern Tradition, where the site of Nanchoc dates to ca 6000 BC, the Paijan Tradition, the Central Andean Tradition, whose widespread lithic tradition has been found in many cave sites, such as the famous Lauricocha (I) and Guitarrero caves, and, finally, the Atacama Maritime Tradition, at the border between Peru and Chile, where the Chinchorro culture developed about 7000 years ago. Other important sites are: Arenal, Amotope, Chivateros (II).
- Preceramic Period IV (6000 – 4200 BC): The hunting, fishing and foraging traditions developed during the previous periods continue. However, toward the end of this period a climatic change allows for early plant cultivation. Important sites are: Lauricocha (II), Ambo, Siches.
- Preceramic Period V (4200 – 2500 BC) : This period corresponds to a relative stabilization of the sea level along with warmer temperatures, especially after 3000 BC. Increase in domesticated plants: squashes, chili peppers, beans, guavas and, most of all, cotton. Important sites are: Lauricocha (III), Honda.
- Preceramic Period VI (2500 – 1800 BC): The last of the Preceramic periods is characterized by the emergence of monumental architecture, population increase, and widespread production of textiles. Different cultural traditions are recognizable: in the highlands, the Kotosh tradition, with the sites of Kotosh, La Galgada, Huaricoto, and along the coast, the monumental sites of Caral, Apero, Huaca Prieta, El Paraiso, La Paloma, Bandurria, Las Haldas, Piedra Parada.
- Next: Part III: Initial through Late Horizon
Sources
Read more about the Timeline of the Ancient Andes
Moseley, Michael E., 2001 [1992], The Incas and their Ancestors. The Archaeology of Peru. Thames and Hudson. London & New York.