Book presentation Gustavo G. Politis: "The Archaeology of the Pampas and Patagonia"

On December 10, 2025, the KAAK library organized a book presentation with Gustavo G. Politis, who presented his latest publication (The Archaeology of the Pampas and Patagonia, Cambridge, New York 2024), published with Luis A. Borrero, to an interested audience at the KAAK. The publication explores the archaeology and ethnography of the indigenous societies of the Argentinian Pampas and Patagonia from the end of the Pleistocene to the twentieth century.

After providing an overview of the research history and the geography of the Pampas and Patagonia, Gustavo Politis discussed the development of human societal forms from nomadic to settled societies. With regard to the utilization of available natural resources, especially stones, plants, and now extinct animal species, Politis provided insights into the development of craft and technical skills, such as ceramics, weapons, and horticulture, which allow conclusions to be drawn about the remarkable ability of indigenous societies to adapt to the natural and geographical characteristics of the region. Ethnographic comparisons with indigenous societies that partially still exist in our times contributed to a helpful understanding.

The presentation provided profound insights into the settlement history of the "Southern Cone“ and closed with a public discussion. Gustavo Politis signed the library’s copy of the book.