Bifacial points from Southern Brazil: statistical analysis

Abstract

Umbu Tradition, distributed in southern and southeastern Brazil, ischaracterized by the presence of bifacial points and presents dates ranging from 12,700 years BP to the historical period. This tradition is problematic because of its wide geographic and chronological range. This work aims to contribute to the characterization of the morphological variability of points through quantitative analysis. The results show that points made by groups from south-eastern Brazil (São Paulo state) are distinct from those made by the southern groups (Paraná, Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul). This would indicate a regional identity shared only by some groups from São Paulo (at least regarding the projectile points). It is possible that Tradition Umbu presents a more restricted range, both in chronological and spatial terms, than the one proposed today.