Mortuary Contexts and Social Structure at Nan Madol, Pohnpei

Archaeological research at Nan Madol, Pohnpei, reveals that mortuary practices reflect a stratified hierarchical social structure consistent with traditional histories. The study interprets burial contexts as indicators of ascribed status within a complex society, providing new insights into the organization and dynamics of Eastern Micronesian communities. By analyzing multiple lines of evidence, this work contributes to the understanding of mortuary traditions in Micronesia and establishes a baseline for future research on Pohnpeian burial practices.

Seikel, K. (2011). Mortuary Contexts and Social Structure at Nan Madol, Pohnpei. The Journal of Island and Coastal Archaeology, 6(3), 442–460. https://doi.org/10.1080/15564894.2011.559615