8000 BCE: Earliest known formation of sambaquis begins along the coast of South America, as indigenous communities start to accumulate shells, bones, and artifacts.

5000 BCE: Sambaquis become more prominent as coastal communities grow and continue to add to these shell mounds.

3000 BCE: Some sambaquis reach significant sizes, serving as burial sites and markers of cultural practices.

2000 BCE: Continued use of sambaquis for domestic waste disposal, burial, and possibly ceremonial purposes.

1000 BCE: Peak usage of sambaquis by prehistoric human groups in Brazil.

500 BCE: Gradual decline in the construction and use of sambaquis as cultural practices evolve.

1500 CE: European explorers begin documenting coastal features, though they may not initially recognize the cultural significance of sambaquis.

The term "sambaqui" is first used in scientific literature to describe these shell mounds.

Danish naturalist Peter Wilhelm Lund studies and excavates some of the first sambaquis, bringing attention to these archaeological sites.

The sambaqui at Itaipu in Niterói, Brazil, is excavated, revealing human remains and artifacts.

Radiocarbon dating techniques are applied to organic materials found in sambaquis, providing more accurate dating for the layers and artifacts.