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Time for the Middle to Upper Paleolithic transition in Europe
1Faculty of Archaeology, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9515, 2300RA Leiden, The Netherlands. w.roebroeks@arch.leidenuniv.nl
Journal of Human Evolution
|October 18, 2008
Summary
The Middle to Upper Paleolithic transition remains poorly understood, with chronological data crucial for understanding Neandertal and early modern human interactions. New research highlights progress and persistent challenges in dating this key prehistoric period.
Area of Science:
- Paleoanthropology
- Prehistoric Archaeology
- Chronometric Dating
Background:
- The transition from the Middle to the Upper Paleolithic is a critical, yet poorly understood, period in Old World prehistory.
- Establishing a reliable chronology for this era is essential for understanding biological and cultural changes, but is challenged by the limitations of radiocarbon dating.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate and synthesize recent findings on the chronology of the Middle to Upper Paleolithic transition.
- To assess the progress and limitations in dating key events, including Neandertal extinction and the arrival of modern humans in Europe.
- To explore the ecological factors influencing interactions between Neandertals and early modern humans.
Main Methods:
- Review and synthesis of archaeological research on the Middle to Upper Paleolithic transition.
- Analysis of chronological data, including radiocarbon dating (14C BP), for the period 40 to 30 ka.
- Paleoanthropological evaluation of fossil and archaeological records.
Main Results:
- Significant advancements have been made in dating the most recent Neandertal fossils and the earliest modern human remains in Europe.
- The chronological database for the 40-30 ka 14C BP period still contains flaws, with underestimated methodological and contextual problems.
- Evidence suggests an overlap between the Châtelperronian and Aurignacian periods, indicating potential interactions.
Conclusions:
- While progress in chronological understanding is evident, significant challenges remain in accurately dating the Middle to Upper Paleolithic transition.
- Further research must address methodological and contextual issues to refine our understanding of this crucial period.
- Ecological differences between Neandertals and early modern humans likely played a role in their interactions and the subsequent cultural shifts.
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