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When Columbus arrived on the shores of Hispaniola, a rich and complex civilisation already existed that forms the core of American cultural history. Exploring ancient southeastern Indian sites from the metropolis of Cahokia (near present-day St Louis), ancient capital of the American heartland, to the island stronghold of Calos - king of the Florida Calusa - the author examines the significance of these prehistoric cultures. Bringing together scholarship from classics in architecture, archaeology and iconography, she discusses 20 sites of Mississippian culture, describing the religious patterns of the inhabitants and the sophisticated art-works that supported their sacred practices. She also addresses the controversial topic of repatriation of Indian artifacts and the continuing problem of archaeological ""looting"" of Indian sites and ceremonial centres. Illustrated with maps, site plans and photographs of the ruins of ancient ceremonial centres along with sculpture, ceramics and other artifacts, this book aims to captures the timeless beauty and technical sophistication of the art and architecture of pre-Columbian America.