1885-1963

American archaeologist and anthropologist whose pioneering work in the southwestern United States resulted in the first comprehensive regional synthesis of North American archaeology, An Introduction to the Study of Southwestern Archaeology (1924). Kidder's combined application of stratigraphical excavations and pottery typology revolutionized archaeology. In addition to the American Southwest, he also implemented a major multi-disciplinary study of the Maya regions of Mexico and Central America, bringing together archaeologists, ethnologists, and natural scientists.