Enclosing Walls in the Northern San Juan: Sociophysical Boundaries and Defensive Fortifications in the American Southwest

Abstract

The study of site enclosing walls on Pueblo III (A.C. 1150–1300) Anasazi sites in the Northern San Juan region of the American Southwest reveals how a subtle architectural feature may have influenced and have been influenced by prehistoric social relations. The apparently sudden appearance of masonry enclosing walls during Pueblo III may indicate a change to more antagonistic social relations. As sociophysical boundaries, enclosing walls were perhaps erected for the purposes of spatial demarcation and social regulation; they may have marked territory, restricted access into sites, and enhanced privacy. Additionally, some of these walls meet the requirements of effective fortifications and may have been components in larger defensive systems. The need for enhanced defensibility during Pueblo III is supported by direct and indirect evidence of conflict during this time.

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