Holocene occupation in southern California using data derived from cultural resource management studies on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton San Diego County, California

This thesis explores aspects of the archaeology of coastal California. Drawing on a large body of data collected during cultural resource management studies on Camp Pendleton in northern San Diego County. It develops a new synthesis of a large body of archaeological data relating to this material. The purpose of this thesis is to present, use and interpret information that will lead to an expanded understanding of the Archaic and the Late Prehistoric Periods of Southern California that is from about 7500 B.P. to 100 B.P. The period of broad focus of the thesis is the Early through Late Holocene. The scope of the study narrows to the late period of the Late Holocene (700 B.P to 100 B.P.). Since chronological issues are central to this study, only radiocarbon dated sites are described while exploring the wider landscape, and changes in its use, and occupation. Landscape factors considered include chronology, topographic setting, climate, and landscape and taskscape elements. It explores the possible causes of major changes taking place in the Late Holocene. It addresses the coastal resource intensification debate which has two contrasting models. This thesis has shown that resource intensification along the coast appears to occur later than generally postulated with a significant change from post 700 B.P. resulting from stress reduction due to the end of persistent droughts. Additionally, it explores the apparent processes of population aggregation taking place post 700 B.P. during the Late Holocene. The timing and potential causes of the aggregation and the resulting sedentism are discussed. It is suggested that this may be linked with a transition from foraging to possible forms of agriculture drawing on domesticated foods.