Saharan Hunter-Gatherers: Specialization and Diversification in Holocene Southwestern Libya

This book explores the archaeology of the Acacus massif and surrounding areas in southwestern Libya over 2500 years of the Early Holocene, using new theoretical approaches and explanations of social and cultural processes. It provides a basis for understanding the original cultural and social developments of hunter-gatherers and foragers and informs the reconstruction of the environment and cultural dynamics of the larger Sahara and North Africa.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 174 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the rich archaeological heritage of the Acacus massif and its surrounding areas in southwestern Libya, spanning a remarkable 2500 years of the Early Holocene. By employing cutting-edge theoretical approaches and offering fresh explanations for the social and cultural processes of this region, the author sheds light on a crucial period that witnessed the emergence of the "Green Sahara" and the introduction of domestic livestock.

Through a meticulous examination of archaeological and rock art evidence, much of which has remained unpublished until now, the book provides a comprehensive exploration of this pivotal era. It offers a solid foundation for understanding the original cultural and social dynamics of the hunter-gatherer and forager communities in the central ranges of the Sahara. Moreover, the work extends its reach beyond the local context, contributing to the reconstruction of the environment and cultural dynamics of the broader Sahara and North Africa.

Packed with numerous illustrations, the book offers a critical synthesis and overview of the developments in central Saharan archaeology within the broader African framework. It serves as an invaluable resource for archaeologists, paleoenvironmental scientists, and rock art researchers actively engaged in studying the Sahara and North Africa. Additionally, it serves as a valuable comparative study for researchers in African archaeology in general.

In summary, this book is a groundbreaking contribution to the field of archaeology, offering a deep and insightful perspective on the past of the Acacus massif and its surrounding regions. It is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of human history and culture in this region.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367538798