2004 (Theory): William Keegan has described the early Saladoid material expression as a “veneer” that served as a shared identity among disparate island comm…

2004 (Theory): William Keegan has described the early Saladoid material expression as a “veneer” that served as a shared identity among disparate island communities. This cultural veneer acted as a “lifeline,” fostering cooperation and providing a sense of shared belief during the risky initial colonization phase known as the “beachhead bottleneck.” During this early period, maintaining ties with a parent community was essential for the survival of small, isolated groups. However, as populations grew and settlements became more secure, these communities began to express more localized identities through their material culture. This transition from a shared regional style to distinct local expressions signifies the successful establishment and maturation of island societies.