Archaeology of a Central Saharan Granitic Ring Complex in Niger

About this book

This monograph presents climatic, geochronological, radiometric, and archaeological evidence for hominin activities around the Adrar Bous massif on the western edge of today's Tenere Desert, Niger. It documents a Late Acheulean lithic industry, a generalised Middle Paleolithic, and an Aterian displaying technological affinities to equatorial African industries.

It also documents two phases of early Holocene Epipalaeolithic during high lake levels in the Tenere, followed by cattle-keepers of Tenerian tradition. Ceramic analysis indicates emergence of an autochthonous Tenerian tradition from earlier, more widespread pottery fabrication practices. Faunal evidence reflects aquatic exploitation during Holocene high lake levels, followed by Tenerian cattle-based pastoralism, with suggestions of ritualised feasting and refuse disposal. This richly illustrated and profusely documented volume contributes to Saharan archaeology and, more broadly, to Pleistocene and Holocene African archaeology.

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