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Michael E. Smith

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description Michael E. Smith Overview

Michael E. Smith is an American archaeologist and academic recognized for his extensive research on the Aztec civilization and ancient Mesoamerican urbanism. He has directed numerous systematic surface surveys and excavations of post-classic sites in central Mexico, including the Aztec rural communities of Cuexcomate and Yautepec. His research heavily emphasizes the systematic, quantitative analysis of archaeological data to understand Aztec economy, social organization, and city planning.

He currently serves as a professor of archaeology at Arizona State University.

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What specific ancient civilization does archaeologist Michael E. Smith study?

Michael E. Smith is an American archaeologist renowned for his systematic surface surveys and excavations of Aztec sites in Mexico. He has extensively researched the political and economic organization of late post-classic Mesoamerican societies.

Which specific Aztec sites has Michael E. Smith directed excavations at?

Smith has directed major excavations at several provincial Aztec sites, most notably at Yautepec and Cuexcomate. These digs provided crucial data on the daily life, housing, and agriculture of ordinary Aztec citizens outside the capital.

What academic institution is Michael E. Smith affiliated with?

He is a prominent professor at Arizona State University, where he is affiliated with the School of Human Evolution and Social Change. He also served as the Director of the ASU Teotihuacan Research Laboratory in Mexico.

Has Michael E. Smith written any major books on the Aztecs?

Yes, he authored the widely cited textbook 'The Aztecs,' which is now in its third edition and considered a standard text in Mesoamerican archaeology. His written work focuses heavily on comparing ancient urbanization with modern social structures.