Project Abstract

Abstract
The origin and spread of stock-keeping in the Near East and Europe is a topic of great interest in understanding the development of human societies. This research project aims to explore the timeline and mechanisms involved in the domestication and dissemination of livestock in these regions. By examining archaeological evidence, genetic studies, and historical records, this study seeks to shed light on how animal domestication revolutionized human subsistence strategies, social structures, and cultural interactions. The Near East is considered one of the primary centers of early animal domestication, with evidence pointing to the domestication of cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs as early as the Neolithic period. The shift from hunting and gathering to animal husbandry represented a significant milestone in human history, leading to the establishment of sedentary communities and the development of agriculture. The spread of stock-keeping practices from the Near East into Europe occurred through various routes, including migration, trade, and cultural exchange. Genetic studies have provided valuable insights into the origins and dispersal patterns of domesticated animals. By analyzing ancient DNA samples, researchers have been able to trace the genetic lineage of livestock species and uncover their movement across different regions. These studies have revealed complex networks of genetic exchange, hybridization events, and selective breeding practices that have shaped the diversity of modern livestock populations. Archaeological excavations have unearthed evidence of early animal management practices, such as corrals, pens, and livestock burial sites. These findings offer clues about the economic, social, and symbolic roles of animals in ancient societies. The presence of domesticated animals in burials and ritual contexts suggests the importance of livestock in religious beliefs and cultural practices. Historical records provide additional insights into the spread of stock-keeping in Europe during the Bronze and Iron Ages. The introduction of new species, such as horses and camels, from the Near East had profound impacts on transportation, warfare, and trade networks in Europe. The adoption of stock-keeping practices by indigenous cultures and the integration of foreign livestock into local economies contributed to the cultural exchange and technological innovations of the time. In conclusion, the origin and spread of stock-keeping in the Near East and Europe have played a crucial role in shaping the development of human societies. By integrating evidence from genetics, archaeology, and history, this research project aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how animal domestication transformed ancient civilizations and laid the foundation for modern agricultural practices.

Project Overview

Funded for 4 years by the AHRC from June 2006, the main objective is to compile a comprehensive database of select animal bone data from relevant sites through which we can systematically aim to, 1) establish the key characteristics of early Neolithic animal exploitation economies through time and over broad and geographic regions, 2) understand the key factors that account for variation in early Neolithic animal expoitation - e.g. local availability versus physical dispersal of animals or ideas, 3) explore possible variation in husbandry/hunting strategies that developed as Neolithic herding economies spread from their area/s of origin, 4) assess the speed its spread across Europe, 5) look for possible adaptive changes in husbandry and hunting practises, 6) look for evidence of local indigenous domestication and finally 7) see whether the zooarchaeological evidence is similar or different to that already researched from ancient domestic and wild plant remains. This is a joint project between a new cross-faculty research centre at the University of Durham called "The Centre for Past Peoples and their Palaeoenvironments" (CP3) and the AHRC Centre for the Evolution of Cultural Diversity (CECD), Institute of Archaeology, UCL. The Principal investigators are Dr. Keith Dobney (CP3) and Professor Stephen Shennan (CECD).