ANTH 324

World Prehistory

This course is a broad survey of world prehistory, from an archaeological perspective. Patterns of culture change will be examined beginning at the emergence of human culture through the development of domestication of plants and animals, to the development of literate societies capable of recording their own history (in writing). Included are major cultural developments on every continent, emphasizing similarities and differences in the nature and timing of key technological, cultural, and social changes. The course will be focused around several key developments in human societies including the transition out of the last ice age, domestication of plants and animals, the establishment of "complex" societies, and the development of important technologies, including pottery and writing. Methodologies for learning about the past, major archaeological discoveries, important personalities, and contributions to the modern world are discussed in the context of understanding the strengths and limitations of a scientific approach to human prehistory.

Units: 3.0

Hours: 54 hours LEC