What were the different roles that animals played in prehistoric societies, such as hunting, gathering, or herding?
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Animals in prehistoric societies served various roles, including hunting, gathering, and herding. In the southern Levant, wild animals were a supplementary food source alongside livestock during the Late Bronze and Iron Ages. At Pingcheng, hunting was crucial for feeding soldiers and was depicted in murals, showcasing the power dynamics within the society. Dogs in early agricultural societies in China had different relationships with humans based on their diet and activities, ranging from foraging to hunting assistance. The Neolithic marked a shift towards managing domesticated animals for food, impacting societal structures and food procurement strategies across Europe. Additionally, hide processing was a significant activity in northern hunter-gatherer societies, highlighting the importance of animals beyond just food provision.
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| Papers (4) | Insight |
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| Animals in prehistoric societies had roles in hunting, herding, and symbolic value, shaping social identities and practices, celebrating community events, and contributing to wealth and status. | |
| Animals in prehistoric societies at Pingcheng were crucial for hunting to discipline soldiers and provide food, herding by ordinary people, and serving feasts, showcasing societal dynamics. | |
| Dogs in early agricultural societies of China had roles in foraging or hunting based on diet analysis, reflecting their involvement in daily agricultural activities or hunting for subsistence. | |
| Wild animals, particularly deer, were hunted in Iron Age sites regardless of landscape changes. Other wild animals correlated with Egyptian presence, indicating economic and symbolic roles in past societies. |
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