This presentation explores the politics and power of the Moche archaeological culture (250-900 AD) of the North Coast of Peru. Moche’s distinct archaeological signatures (exquisitely decorated ceramics, monumental architecture, polychrome murals, metalwork, etc.) have long been seen as the first evidence for a South American state. However, current scholars have begun to pull apart these assumptions and view Moche as a more complex mosaic of interacting settlements across a landscape. Dr. Michele Koons, Curator of Archaeology, will explore the evidence that supports this current trend in thinking.