OS PIONEIROS E SEU LEGADO NA CONSTRUÇÃO DA ARQUEOLOGIA DO MARANHÃO

This article discusses the history of archeology and the role the  pioneers of Maranhao in the construction of knowledge about the past. To  this end, two moments that will be addressed characterized the trajectory  of the discipline: Description Period (XVII – XIX), which produced the most  significant reports on indigenous peoples of the state, inexhaustible source  of inspiration and knowledge about the local past and period Description -  Qualifier (XX), which were recorded and described the main archaeological  sites observed in different regions of Maranhao. Moreover, it was  characterized as a singular moment in the history of archeology of  Maranhao because the pioneer character of some researchers to address  current issues such as the protection and preservation of archaeological heritage for future generations, knowledge socialization and education and research.