The contribution of Richard Cooke to Costa Rican archaeology

Abstract

Richard Cooke has been a key figure in the development of archaeological practice in Panama since the 1970s. Additionally, from his position at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI), he encouraged the participation of Costa Rican students and archaeologists in their research projects, both in the field and in the laboratory, influencing their training and professional practice. Several of these participations resulted in graduation projects at the University of Costa Rica. A review of the participations and areas of interest is presented, and how they have contributed to archeology in Costa Rica. Cooke’s contribution to the archeology of southern Central America, and his relationships with specialists from other disciplines, are also addressed.