The 12th Millennium BC: An Overview
The 12th millennium BC spanned the years 12,000 BC to 11,001 BC (approximately 14 ka to c. 13 ka). This period is part of the Upper Paleolithic and marks a significant transition known as the Paleolithic-Mesolithic transition, which began in the Near East during this time. Precise dating of events from this millennium is challenging, with estimates primarily based on geological, anthropological analysis, and radiometric dating.
Geological and Environmental Changes
Animals
Evidence suggests that the Horn core of Saiga tatarica from the Komishan cave indicates cave occupation at the end of this millennium. In France, the earliest incisor remains from a red deer date back to the 13-12th millennium BC. Moreover, the first dog remains are attributed to the Natufian culture of the southern Levant during this period.
Environmental Changes
Material evidence points to the buildup of the Mediterranean islands, with activity noted as early as the 12-11th millennium BC. Changes in the Magdalenian and Azilian cultures in Western Europe have also been documented, particularly during the Lateglacial warming, often interpreted through narratives of catastrophic events that still influence prehistoric research.
Human Culture
Human Presence
There is no concrete archaeological evidence to suggest a human presence in Egypt during this millennium, according to Egyptologists. However, discoveries at Tushka indicate a continuity of human habitation in the region that extends into recorded history.
Technology and Agriculture
This millennium provides the earliest evidence of various tool groups including end-scrapers, burins, and perforators from the Moravian inventory, dated to the late 13th – early 11th millennium BC. Notably, this period saw the emergence of deep-sea fishing and navigation across the Strait of Gibraltar. Furthermore, the seeds of bitter vetch were discovered among early wild collected plants and among storage of domesticated crops from this millennium, marking the origins of agriculture in the Middle East.
Other Cultural Developments
During the latter half of this millennium, the Hamburg cultures thrived in Schleswig-Holstein. Significant archaeological sites such as Göbekli Tepe, Gusir Höyük, and Nevali Çori provide compelling evidence of public rituals performed by shaman-like practitioners, indicating organized celebrations of rites and rituals. Excavations in Mexico’s Tehuacan Valley also reveal a series of cultural layers from this time. Additionally, the site of Jebel Sahaba reflects evidence of prolonged violence, likely dating back to this millennium.
Conclusion
The 12th millennium BC marks a pivotal point in human history, characterized by significant environmental changes, advancements in technology, and the development of complex human cultures. This entire period serves as a vital foundation for understanding the evolution of human societies.