Bonito Phase facts for kids
The Bonito Phase is a special time in history. It refers to a period between the years 900 and 1140 CE. During this time, the Ancestral Puebloans built many large structures. These buildings are called great houses. They were constructed in the Chaco Canyon area.
This important period is split into three parts. The Early Bonito phase lasted from 900 to 1040 CE. Next came the Classic Bonito phase, from 1040 to 1100 CE. Finally, the Late Bonito phase was from 1100 to 1140 CE. When experts first studied this system in the 1980s, they thought building at Pueblo Bonito started around 920 CE. But now, we know construction began much earlier, around 850 CE.
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What is the Bonito Phase?
The Bonito Phase marks a very active time for the Ancestral Puebloans. It was when they built their largest and most complex structures. These buildings are found in Chaco Canyon, in what is now New Mexico. This period shows a peak in their building skills. It also highlights their social organization.
Who Were the Ancestral Puebloans?
The Ancestral Puebloans were ancient Native American people. They lived in the Southwestern United States. They are known for their unique architecture. They built homes into cliffs and large stone villages. Their culture thrived for hundreds of years. They were skilled farmers and builders.
Where is Chaco Canyon?
Chaco Canyon is a special place in New Mexico. It is now a National Historical Park. This canyon was a major center for the Ancestral Puebloans. It has many large ruins of ancient buildings. These ruins show how advanced their society was. Chaco Canyon was a hub for trade and culture.
Building Great Houses
During the Bonito Phase, the Ancestral Puebloans built many "great houses." These were not just regular homes. They were huge, multi-story stone buildings. They had hundreds of rooms. Some great houses also had large circular rooms called kivas. Kivas were used for ceremonies and community gatherings.
What are Great Houses Like?
Great houses were very impressive structures. They were made of carefully shaped stone. The walls were often thick and strong. Builders used a special type of masonry. This made the buildings very stable. Some great houses were built in a D-shape. Others were built in straight lines.
Purpose of Great Houses
The exact purpose of great houses is still debated. Some experts think they were homes for many people. Others believe they were ceremonial centers. They might have been places for important events. They could also have been storage areas for food. Great houses likely served many purposes. They were central to the Chacoan world.
Famous Great Houses
Pueblo Bonito is one of the most famous great houses. It is also one of the largest. It had over 600 rooms. Other important great houses include Chetro Ketl and Una Vida. These buildings show amazing engineering. They also show the Puebloans' understanding of astronomy.
Phases of Construction
The Bonito Phase is divided into three main parts. Each part saw different levels of building activity. Understanding these phases helps us track the growth of Chaco Canyon.
Early Bonito Phase (900-1040 CE)
The Early Bonito phase saw the start of major construction. This is when the first large great houses began to appear. Builders started with smaller sections. They slowly added more rooms and stories. This phase laid the groundwork for later, larger projects.
Classic Bonito Phase (1040-1100 CE)
The Classic Bonito phase was the peak of construction. Many of the largest great houses were completed during this time. Building techniques became more refined. The Chacoan system expanded. This period represents the height of their architectural achievements.
Late Bonito Phase (1100-1140 CE)
The Late Bonito phase saw a slowdown in new construction. Some existing great houses were still being modified. However, the large-scale building projects decreased. This phase marks the end of the main construction period. After 1140 CE, the Chacoan system began to change.
Why is the Bonito Phase Important?
The Bonito Phase is crucial for understanding the Ancestral Puebloans. It shows their ability to organize large projects. It also reveals their advanced building skills. The great houses are a testament to their culture. They represent a complex society. This period helps us learn about ancient life in the Southwest.
