A Shroud of Ochre

Only recently has the study of ochre use in mortuary contexts by prehistoric groups taken a key place in archaeological research. Most often, this research has primarily taken the form of debates over ochre's purpose and significance among these people. To date, no study has researched the extent of Pre-Contact mortuary ochre use in North America or the cultural characteristics common among its practitioners. This study seeks to establish patterns of commonality based on a comparison of ten North American prehistoric groups whose mortuary ochre use is well-documented. Using a criterion of eight cultural traits that are common indicators of cultural complexity, the study examines the hypothesis that the use of ochre in burials was more commonly found in complex societies. The results, although inconclusive in determining the viability of the hypothesis, indicate patterns of cultural commonality and help to define the spatial and temporal distribution of those groups who used ochre in mortuary contexts.