Formative stage

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The Formative Stage is an archaeological term describing a particular developmental level. This stage is the third of five stages defined by Gordon Willey and Philip Phillips' 1958 book Method and Theory in American Archaeology. For more details, see List of archaeological periods (North America). The term is still used in Mesoamerican archaeology, but has fallen into disuse elsewhere.

Cultures of the Formative Stage are supposed to possess the technologies of pottery, weaving, and developed food production. Social organization is supposed to involve permanent towns and villages, as well as the first ceremonial centers. Ideologically, an early priestly class or theocracy is often present or in development.

Sometimes referred to as the Pre-Classic stage.

Examples of cultures considered to be Formative include the Olmec and Mississippian cultures.

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