In pursuit of the longue duree: Usinga geographic information system to model archaeological settlement patternsin the region of Tell el-'Umeiri, Jordan

Abstract

The Madaba Plains Project has long been interested in the cyclic pattern of settlement intensification and abatement in Jordan. A relationship between these cycles and the environment was assumed, but making tangible connections between them has proven difficult. This study uses Fernand Braudel's temporal hierarchy, particularly his longue duree, as a theoretical framework for approaching the relationship between ancient humans and their environment; and utilizes geographic information systems (GIS) technology to establish the relationship. Archaeological data, supplied by the regional survey in the hinterland of Tell al-'Umeiri, Jordan, is placed in the context of environmental data managed by the GIS. Three analyses are carried out. Logistic regression models were constructed to discover environmental signatures for sites from different periods. Erosion models are used to discover whether or not terrace agriculture was utilized during these same periods. Finally, visibility analysis is used to document socio/cultural factors in settlement location strategies.