Domestication in Action: Past and Present Human-Reindeer Interaction in Northern Fennoscandia

Reindeer have been an essential part of Northern Fennoscandia's lives for centuries, and this book explores the archaeology of reindeer domestication and herding practices among the Sámi people. It covers over a thousand years of history, highlighting how reindeer herders have adapted to changing social, economic, and environmental pressures while retaining memory and tradition. The book emphasizes the resilience of reindeer herders and their animals in the changing Arctic and the importance of their relationship.

Format: Hardback
Length: 283 pages
Publication date: 25 May 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Reindeer have played a vital role in the lives of people in Northern Fennoscandia throughout prehistoric and historic times. In the present era, reindeer herding practices are undergoing rapid transformations due to the multifaceted impacts of climate change, land use pressures, and emerging technologies. This comprehensive book delves into the latest advancements in the archaeology of reindeer domestication and the evolution of reindeer herding among the Sámi people of Northern Fennoscandia. It specifically focuses on identifying and comprehending diverse reindeer herding tasks and practices through a combination of archaeological evidence and the traditional knowledge of reindeer herders. Spanning over a thousand years of reindeer herding history, the book explores the dynamic nature of reindeer herding practices, their ability to adapt to changing social, economic, and environmental pressures. While these practices have evolved, they have also preserved cherished memories and traditions. The enduring continuity and adaptability of reindeer herding serve as a testament to the resilience of reindeer herders and their animals, as well as the significance of their relationship in the evolving Arctic landscape. This book holds immense interest for scholars engaged in the fields of archaeology, anthropology, Arctic history, as well as local communities and reindeer herders.

Weight: 524g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030986421
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022