Mound Sites of the Ancient South

the long version

From approximately ad 900 to 1600, ancient Mississippian culture dominated today's southeastern United States. These Native American societies, known more popularly as moundbuilders, had populations that numbered in the thousands, produced vast surpluses of food, engaged in long-distance trading, and were ruled by powerful leaders who raised large armies. The remnants of Mississippian cities - scattered throughout the Southeast from Florida north to Wisconsin and as far west as Texas - are still visible and awe inspiring today. The Guide Includes, an introduction to Mississippian culture, including information on subsistence and settlement practices, political and social organization, warfare, and belief systems, descriptions of twenty-two sites including Cahokia, Moundville, and Etowah, discussions of specific structures at each location and highlights of noteworthy museums, artifacts, and cultural features, 92 color photos, 23 black-and-white photos, and 20 maps.