NYSAA Bulletin No. 52 — Archaic Sites: Croton Point & Dogan Point — Passage 25 (part 3)

[Various (1971)] It was undoubtedly a period of great diversification and innovation and a time when the foundations for the later complex cultures were established. The great importance and complexity of these Archaic Cultures are just beginning to receive the attention they so justly deserve and the next ten years will see our understanding of the Archaic even more enhanced. In American Dawn there is a good discussion of the development of corn and agricultural practices. It is one of the most intriguing stories of man in the New World and the archeological and botanical research that tells this story makes fascinating reading. In addition to the changes in subsistence patterns brought about by agriculture, Brennan discusses the development of religio us beliefs, first noted in the Archaic Period, right up to the magnificent Adena and Hopewell Cultures of the Ohio Valley.

In his chapter entitled the "Rise and Fall of the Shamans" he gives an excellent picture of prehistoric ceremonialism with its emphasis on the dead, the construction of burial mounds, and sacred centers. Mr. Brennan gives the general reader a new perspective and appreciation of the rise of New World culture with an astounding amount of well illustrated information spiced with wit, humor, and constant reminders of the past's lessons for man today. The professional archeologist may criticize Brennan for sins of commission and omission and he may disagree with some of his interpretations and ideas.