The Prehistoric Hunter-Gatherers of South-Eastern Europe

The Prehistoric Hunter-Gatherers of South-Eastern Europe explores the Balkan record of prehistoric foragers, highlighting their dispersal, ecologies, evolution, and symbolism. The Balkans serve as a key crossroads region, connecting the Near East and Europe, and as an interaction zone, where interbreeding and rock art evidence has been discovered.

Format: Hardback
Length: 362 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The Prehistoric Hunter-Gatherers of South-Eastern Europe delves into the intricate tapestry of the Balkan region, situated at the crossroads between the Near East and the rest of Europe. This groundbreaking interdisciplinary study offers a comprehensive exploration of the region's prehistoric forager record, encompassing dispersal, ecological dynamics, evolution, and symbolic significance.

The Balkans, once perceived as a mere transit point, have emerged as a pivotal crossroads, connecting the Near East to the rest of Europe. The movements of ancient human foragers, rather than solely flowing from east to west, also included eastward dispersals into the Near East. Moreover, the Balkans served as a dynamic interaction zone, where encounters between incoming and indigenous human groups fostered the exchange of ideas and genetic material.

In recent years, there has been a significant surge in scholarly interest in the region, resulting in the uncovering of genetic evidence for interbreeding between Neanderthals and modern humans. Additionally, rock art and potential early seafaring evidence have been discovered, shedding light on the rich cultural heritage and technological advancements of the time.

To pave the way for future research, Ruiz-Redondo and Davies have presented novel frameworks that aim to enhance our understanding of the region's prehistoric past. The Prehistoric Hunter-Gatherers of South-Eastern Europe stands as the inaugural volume dedicated to evaluating the extensive hunter-gatherer prehistory of South-Eastern Europe, presenting the most up-to-date evidence to re-establish the region's geographical and human evolutionary significance. This comprehensive examination encompasses a range of evidence, including shifting raw material and subsistence economies, human remains and ancient DNA, and pre-Neolithic ceramics.

Through its multidisciplinary approach, The Prehistoric Hunter-Gatherers of South-Eastern Europe provides a profound insight into the complex interplay between human societies, environment, and culture in this historically significant region. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and enthusiasts alike, shedding light on the rich tapestry of human history and contributing to our understanding of the world's prehistoric past.

Weight: 930g
Dimension: 162 x 241 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197267509