Abstract

MAILHE, Alejandra. A Hyperbolic Archaeology for Americanism. Reflections upon the link between Arthur Posnansky and Ernesto Quesada. Prismas [online]. 2022, vol.26, n.1, pp.58-81.  Epub Nov 01, 2022. ISSN 1852-0499.  http://dx.doi.org/10.48160/18520499prismas26.1197.

This paper analyzes the relationship of intellectual collaboration established between the archaeologist Arthur Posnansky -who was focused on the interpretation of the archaeological legacy of Tiahuanaco- and the Argentine sociologist Ernesto Quesada. In the 1920s, both engaged in a fluid correspondence that hints at the centrality of preColumbian archaeology -and the importance of transnational solidarity ties- for the consolidation of Americanism. In particular, I am interested in investigating the consequences of the dissemination in Argentina of Posnansky’s daring hypotheses, which were harshly opposed by the “scientific” archaeology of José Imbelloni. To this end, I would like to explore the role played by Posnansky in Quesada’s critical reception of Oswald Spengler’s The Decline of the West. Ultimately, I am interested in illuminating the intersections between “Americanism” stricto sensu (centered on archaeology) and other social discourses (such as interpretive essays) that are perceived as part of a more far-reaching “Americanism” inspired by the search for a unified continental identity.

Keywords : Arthur Posnansky; Ernesto Quesada; Americanism; Latin America.

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