article

Pits, graves and grains: archaeological and archaeobotanical research in southern Cameroun

Journal of African archaeology • 4 (2) • Published In 2006 • Pages: 273-298

By: Eggert, Manfred K. H., Höhn, Alexa, Kahlheber, Stefanie, Meister, Conny, Neumann, Katharina, Schweizer, Astrid.

Abstract

This document presents some of the results from archaeological fieldwork in southern Cameroon that, almost uniquely at the time in Central and West Africa, included the processing of sediment samples from archaeological sites to retrieve botanical remains, and of sediment cores from river channels for palynological samples. The investigators found evidence of pearl millet, a plant better-adapted to semi-arid West African savannas (its probable place of origin), as well as other wild and domesticated plants. Their findings indicate contact with West Africa and provide indications of possible plant foods in the diet of other African rainforest dwellers.

Region

Africa

Sub Region

Western Africa

Document Type

article

Evaluation

Creator Type

Archaeologist

Document Rating

4: Excellent Secondary Data

5: Excellent Primary Data

Analyst

Sarah Berry; 2021

Field Date

1997-1999, 2004-2006

Coverage Date

2800-1600 BP

Coverage Place

South Region, Cameroon

Notes

Manfred K.H. Eggert, Alexa Höhn, Stefanie Kahlheber, Conny Meister, Katharina Neumann, and Astrid Schweizer

Includes bibliographical references (p. 296-298)

LCCN

2004257002

LCSH

West African Neolithic