The history of bioarchaeological research in Lagoa Santa, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Abstract The region of Lagoa Santa, Minas Gerais, presents a research history that crosses the disciplinary boundaries of anthropology, archaeology and biology. In this article, we outline the debates that went on during more than 180 years of research in the region. The first studies in the area were carried out by the naturalist Peter Lund in the 19th century. Since then, Brazilian interventions, such as the ones sponsored by the National Museum of Rio de Janeiro, and international ones, such as the American and French missions, have taken place in the region. We emphasize in this article the impact of the theoretical changes and the intensity of dialogue between disciplines involved in Lagoa Santa research. Finally, we highlight the importance of keeping research focused on interdisciplinary scientific issues.