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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Animal Remains from Industrial Iron Age Communities in Phalaborwa, South Africa
Authors:Plug, InaISNI
Pistorius, J.C.C.
Year:1999
Periodical:African Archaeological Review
Volume:16
Issue:3
Period:September
Pages:155-184
Language:English
Geographic term:South Africa
Subjects:Iron Age
prehistory
Anthropology and Archaeology
External link:https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021676616468
Abstract:The Phalaborwa region in the Northern Province of South Africa has one of the richest copper and iron-bearing deposits in southern Africa. These deposits have been worked for 1200 years and are still being worked. The abundance of ore reduction and metal production sites, dating mostly to the Late Iron Age, testifies to the importance of these deposits. Three archaeological sites were identified, namely, the Loole, Sekgopo and Ga-Masisimale. Evidence shows that these can be associated with historically known population groups of the area, namely, the Makusane and Maseke-Malatji, the Majaji-Malatji, and the Bashai.The sites provide valuable insight into the industrial processes, economy, rituals, and use of animals by these specialized communities. The faunal remains reflect different lifestyles, but also indicate that animal husbandry was not of primary importance. The communities were focused predominantly on metal production. The soils and climate of the region are not very suitable for herding and agriculture. Subsequently products of the metal working activities such as hoes were used as replacement for cattle in bridewealth. Bibliogr., sum. in English and French.
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