The origin of archaeozoology in México: An overview

Based on an analysis of the literature, two historical moments are explored to locate the rise and development of archaeozoology in México. The first is at the end of 18th century with the discovery of a Prehispanic offering with canid remains. Although a scientific tradition was not based on this discovery, a clear precedent was set for interest in the study of human–animal relationships. The second moment is at the end of the 19th century, when some Pleistocene localities in the Basin of México were discovered. The localities provide evidence of the early peopling in México and the early use of extinct animals, increasing the interest in Prehistoric issues and later in uses of fauna by former cultures. Those investigations were undertaken within the main scientific institutions of the country. The early works constitute a tradition that connects with the interest of two influential archaeologists, Manuel Gamio and José Luis Lorenzo. In the Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia, José Luis Lorenzo promoted the creation of a specialized laboratory to study faunal remains and the relationships with human groups, in the middle of the 20th century. This sealed the traditional link between biologist and archaeologist, and archaeozoology was formalized as an interdisciplinary practice, later expanded to other Mexican institutions.