1952 – 1992: Irving Rouse’s traditional archaeological model proposed that the Boca Chica style originated in the southern Dominican Republic before being in…

1952 – 1992: Irving Rouse’s traditional archaeological model proposed that the Boca Chica style originated in the southern Dominican Republic before being introduced to Puerto Rico. According to this theory, Chican potters established colonies on the southern coast, influencing local groups to develop the Capá and Esperanza styles in their respective territories. This model suggests a unidirectional flow of cultural influence that defined the boundaries of different indigenous “provinces.” However, more recent research indicates that these styles may have developed through more complex, multidirectional interactions across the Mona Passage. This ongoing scholarly debate highlights the challenges of using pottery as a direct proxy for population movement and ethnic identity.