'True prehistory' is hidden behind our biasses and pre conceptions. So we generally have a too romantic and idealized vision of the past. It is demonstrated that environmental impact in the... Show more'True prehistory' is hidden behind our biasses and pre conceptions. So we generally have a too romantic and idealized vision of the past. It is demonstrated that environmental impact in the Netherlands was severe from the early Metal Ages onward. The agricultural system on the uplands was not sustainable, not in 'harmony with nature', but destructive. Less than 30 000 people did away with major parts of the 'virgin forests' in two millennia. Certainly, prehistory was unpolluted, but it was less varied and shows a distinct human impact in its vegetation than realized when 'prehistory' is chosen as a reference for nature management and development. The 'desired habitats' of nature conservationists are closer to paradise than to prehistory. Show less
