The Delicious Diets Of Prehistoric Europe (Mesolithic, Neolithic, Bronze Age)

In the realm of ancient civilizations, Mesolithic foragers often take a backseat to their more renowned counterparts, the Neolithic farmers. However, a recent archaeological discovery on the enchanting island of Collinsay in Scotland has shed light on the ingenuity and resourcefulness of these seemingly forgotten people.

Deep within the earth, a pit was unearthed, filled to the brim with an astonishing treasure - 30 to 40,000 intact but charred hazelnuts, weighing a whopping 16 kilograms. But that's not all. Alongside the hazelnuts, a treasure trove of other artifacts was found - crab apples, seeds, charcoal, and even stone tools. The purpose of this pit remains shrouded in mystery, but one theory suggests that it was used as a means to dispose of accidentally charred hazelnuts.

Now, you might be wondering, what's the big deal about charred hazelnuts? Well, hold on to your seats, because it's estimated that between 120,000 and 330,000 hazelnuts were roasted at this site. Yes, you read that right! These Mesolithic foragers had a penchant for roasted hazelnuts, and this discovery hints at the existence of a vast hazelnut resource that could have provided them with a substantial source of calories in those ancient times.

The Hidden Complexity of Mesolithic Foragers

Mesolithic foragers have long been overshadowed by the advent of Neolithic farming, but this discovery challenges our preconceived notions about their capabilities. It turns out that these foragers were not just simple gatherers, but rather masters of wild plant and animal management. They had strategies for increasing productivity and controlling plant resources, employing techniques such as selective burning of woodlands and weeding. Astoundingly, there is even evidence to suggest that they managed wild hazelnut orchards, cultivating and nurturing these precious trees to ensure a bountiful harvest.

But it doesn't stop there. Mesolithic people were not content with managing plants alone; they also dabbled in the art of introducing and managing small animals. In fact, it is believed that the practice of introducing land snails to new environments originated in Iberia and spread to places like Ireland. These resourceful foragers understood the potential benefits of such introductions, ensuring a steady supply of food in unfamiliar territories.

A Symphony of Intentional Introductions

As the glaciers retreated and sea levels rose, new opportunities arose for our ancient ancestors. They saw it as a chance to shape their surroundings, to mold the world according to their needs. And so, they intentionally introduced animal species to various islands, creating a symphony of biodiversity. In Ireland, the land flourished with the arrival of wild boar and brown bears, all thanks to the ingenuity and foresight of these early humans.

The Neolithic Revolution: A Double-Edged Sword

While the Mesolithic foragers reveled in their mastery of wild resources, the Neolithic period marked a monumental shift in human history. It was a time when our ancestors transitioned from a nomadic lifestyle to a settled existence, embracing the cultivation of plants and domestication of animals. This shift brought about significant changes in their diets, as they shifted their focus from a wide range of wild edible plants to a more concentrated reliance on domesticated cereals and animals.

Undoubtedly, this transition led to larger populations and the birth of civilization as we know it. However, it also came at a cost. The health of individuals took a hit, as their diets became less diverse and more monotonous. But our resourceful ancestors didn't back down. They found a way to adapt and thrive.

The Lactose Tolerance Revolution

Dairy consumption played a pivotal role in the Neolithic diet, but there was a catch. Early farmers were mostly lactose intolerant, unable to digest milk and other dairy products. However, they refused to let this obstacle hinder their progress. Through sheer determination and innovation, they developed methods to make dairy products more digestible. And thus, the genes for adult lactose tolerance began to spread like wildfire during the Bronze Age, revolutionizing our relationship with dairy and shaping the course of human evolution.

As we delve deeper into the annals of history, we uncover the remarkable stories of our ancestors. From the Mesolithic foragers with their hazelnut havens to the Neolithic farmers forging a new path, each chapter reveals a tapestry of resilience, ingenuity, and unwavering determination. So let us marvel at their accomplishments and draw inspiration from their timeless wisdom as we navigate the complexities of our own modern world.