Context is key: geoarchaeological investigations of Middle and Later Stone Age rockshelter deposits in southern Africa

Abstract

This PhD thesis addresses southern African archaeology, emphasizing the importance of considering geoarchaeological context when using archaeological remains to support hypotheses. It focuses on Umhlatuzana and Umbeli Belli rockshelters, conducting a comprehensive stratigraphic analysis for a deep understanding of their depositional history and archaeological context.

Umhlatuzana's stratigraphic sequence reveals primary, unaltered depositional micro-layering throughout, challenging assumptions of sediment movement. Bioturbation features are present but do not significantly impact lithic assemblages.

Umbeli Belli rockshelter shows intense percolating water activity, causing poor preservation of organic remains. Different geogenic processes and pulsed occupations form varying artifact densities and sterile zones, but overall, the archaeological context remains secure with minimal bioturbation.

This research highlights the need for taphonomic studies to understand the visibility, invisibility, or absence of specific proxies in the archaeological record. In-depth geoarchaeological analysis contributes to assessing archaeological record completeness and revealing remnants affected by post-depositional processes. In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of geoarchaeological research in elucidating site formation processes and archaeological visibility, especially in challenging preservation conditions, like Umhlatuzana and Umbeli Belli rockshelters, providing valuable insights into southern African archaeology.