Beyond the sum: Evaluating the potential and limitations of analysing Neolithic population dynamics based on fluctuations in radiocarbon dates and sites (Scheldt basin, Northern France and Belgium)

Elliot Van Maldegem; Florian Lauryssen; Erik Smolders; Philippe Crombé

doi:10.4312/dp.51.14

Authors

Elliot Van Maldegem Ghent University, Department of Archaeology, Belgium
Florian Lauryssen KU Leuven, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Belgium
Erik Smolders KU Leuven, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Belgium
Philippe Crombé Ghent University, Department of Archaeology, Belgium

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4312/dp.51.14

Keywords:

radiocarbon data, site count data, palaeodemographical dynamics, Neolithic period, Bronze Age

Abstract

This study presents a multiproxy palaeodemographic perspective by combining radiocarbon dates with counts of archaeological site phases in the western Scheldt basin, spanning from the beginning of the Neolithic to the Early Bronze Age. The results were assessed critically, accounting for differences in research methodology, soil conditions and changes in building traditions. The results indicate a dynamic region characterized by almost continual growth. Moreover, two distinct sub-regions of the basin could be compared, thereby elucidating the sub-regional differences. It is clear that palaeodemographic studies are only feasible when a multiproxy analysis is used on a detailed, highly scrutinized dataset.

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References

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