African Herders - Emergence of Pastoral Traditions (Hardcover)

Scholars have long acknowledged a gap in the archaeological literature on African herder societies. Utilizing almost 40 years' work, Andrew Smith presents a detailed portrait of modern herdsmen and their historical antecedents. Following the assumption that Africa has never been isolated from the rest of the world, Smith illuminates key topics ranging from material culture and rituals, to future prospects for pastoralists. Written in a scholarly yet accessible style, Smith presents evidence detailing African herders' historical relationship to similar societies in the Near East, as well as their present state in the modern world. This volume will be indispensable to understanding the unique role pastoralists have played over time throughout the continent.