Much of the pre-Columbian history of the United States remains misunderstood and unknown to most Americans. However, the past native inhabitants of the United States during the Mississippian period (AD 900-1500) developed highly complex societies rivaling those of Mesoamerica and South America such as the Maya and Inca. In this course, we will dig into what archaeology is and how scholars have used archaeology to learn about the people who lived in the largest pre-Columbian city in North America, Cahokia as well as other regional civic-ceremonial centers. The course will explore the way Mississippians interacted with the land, modifying it with large earthen mounds, how they interacted with each other and other settlements in its hinterland, and lastly how this civilization interacted with the cosmos. Visit St. Louis and climb the largest pyramid north of Mexico to explore how Cahokia’s inhabitants used practices and objects to distinguish themselves. Learn what it means to be “Mississippian”. 

The cost in St. Louis is estimated to be $1,000 which includes a double occupancy hotel room, transportation to course activities, entrance to dig sites, breakfast, and lunch. Travel to and from St. Louis must be arranged independently. Students and are expected to arrive by Monday, March 11th in time for dinner and an evening kick-off to the course. The course will conclude on the evening of March 14th.

Honors students in good standing and non-Honors undergraduates with a 3.0+GPA may apply for this course. All applications that meet this criterion will be accepted and enrolled in this 1-credit spring course, tuition and fees apply (financial aid may support the cost). 

Please complete this application only if you are committed to enrolling in this course and willing to meet the academic and financial requirements. Reservations will be made on your behalf once you are enrolled.

Reach out to Kristy Spear (kspear@honors.ufl.edu) or Anthony Farace (afarace@ufl.edu) if you have questions about the course.