A Multi-Isotopic Approach to Examining Mobility and Social Reorganization During the Bronze Age Transition in Ras Al...

The transition from the latter part of the Early (Umm an-Nar: 2700-2000 bce) to Middle (Wadi Suq: 2000-1600 bce) Bronze Age in southeastern Arabia was once interpreted as a time of sociopolitical and economic collapse in the face of climate change. However, recent archaeological and bioarchaeological studies have demonstrated gradual and more nuanced adaptation in response to environmental challenges. The site of Shimal in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, UAE is uniquely suited to expanding our understanding of this transition because-unlike most Umm an-Nar sites, which were abandoned by ca. 2000 bce-Shimal was continuously occupied throughout the third and second millennia.

Strontium, oxygen, and carbon isotopes in human teeth (n = 57 teeth from 50 individuals) from two Umm an-Nar and four Wadi Suq tombs were analyzed to investigate shifting forms of social organization.

Strontium isotope ratios differed statistically over time, although only a slight increase was evident in the Wadi Suq. Stable oxygen isotope values varied significantly between the earlier Umm an-Nar tomb Unar 1 and all later tombs. Stable carbon isotope values remained consistent throughout both periods.

Continuity in the region is evident, reflective of the unique geographic location of Shimal as an oasis whose water resources enabled the community to better withstand the effects of aridification and to maintain subsistence strategies. At the same time, however, temporal shifts in strontium and oxygen isotopes may point to the presence of people who migrated north in search of environmental stability.