| Abstract [eng] |
Lithuanian archeologists claim that the rise of the Bronze Age in the Lithuanian area could be delimited within the period of 700 years. Therefore, this research, on the basis of the latest data in the spheres of archaeology, radiocarbon 14C dating, landscape archaeology, palynology and zooarchaeology, aims to define the exact date of the emergence of the Bronze Age as well as to throw some light on economic and social changes during this period. Qualitative radiocarbon dating is the best means to solve chronological problems (Table 1), and it proves that in the Lithuanian area the early Bronze Age started ca 2000 BC. This period (2000-1650 BC) was marked by the emergence of farming economy and its rapid spread (Table 2). Compared to other Central European territories, farming in the Lithuanian area started later; on the other hand, it gained impetus at the time, when in the neighbouring territories (Unetice Culture territory) farming economy came to an end. These changes could be named as "belated Neolithic revolution". After 2000 BC, metal and prestige flint artefacts became a sign of social differentiation. Though being used as symbols of power, prestige and ritual, they also became everyday life commodities and objects. As far as spiritual life was concerned, people of that period (farmers and stock breeders) formed a conception that death was not the end; consequently, this inspired optimism and a strong belief in revival. |
