November 7−10, 2008

This 41^st Annual Chacmool Conference is hosted by the Chacmool Archaeological Association and the Department of Archaeology, University of Calgary.

It’s Good to be King:
The Archaeology of Power and Authority

Power and authority provide the framework for societies the world over, and have done so, arguably from the dawn of social interaction between the human species. This year's topic is an attempt to analyze and provide an examination of power, authority and respect, in regards to the various ways that it is incorporated within the archaeological record. Power is manifested via a multitude of sociocultural structures, and is seen across societies in the form of monumental architecture, religious institutions, rulers, and armies. It is also present on a smaller scale, within familial relationships, guilds, and neighborhoods. Cultural symbols reinforce this ever present and pervasive factor, such as ear spools within Mesoamerica, ranks within a military unit, or styles and manners of dress. Based solely on these few examples alone, a plethora of archaeological research can be conducted, and these few examples are by no means the extent of possible areas for potential research and presentation.

News and Updates

• All registrations must now be processed by our volunteers at the registration desk during conference hours. The registration desk can be found at the entrance of the University of Calgary Rozsa Centre (RC), our conference venue.
  • Registrations can also be completed at the Opening Reception, Friday, November 7, at the Best Western Village Park Inn, Edgemont Room, from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
• Our 2008 keynote speakers and their topics are:
  • Susan Jamieson (Trent University)
    Power and Authority in the Great Lakes-Saint Lawrence Lowlands Region, Eastern Canada
  • Nic David (University of Calgary)
    "Ô misère des rois!
    Hunting power and authority in the Mandara Mountains"
  • Kathryn Reese-Taylor (University of Calgary)
    The Feminine Mystique and Maya Queens, a Case of Classic Sexual Politics
  • Norman Yoffee (University of Michigan)
    The Limits of Power in Ancient States
  • Randall McGuire (Binghamton University)
    The Power of Archaeology

• Our final program is now available for download:
  • Visit the following link for the latest version of our program.
  • Presenters, please verify that the information appearing in the program is correct.
  • Requests for changes should be sent to arkcon41@ucalgary.ca