Kabelindde, Alexander Titan; (2024) Technological behaviour of Homo erectus in Beds II, III and IV, Olduvai Gorge (Tanzania). Doctoral thesis (Ph.D), UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

Technological behaviours of Homo erectus are discussed following a comprehensive technological analysis of stone tool assemblages from FC East, JK, and WK sites at Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania. Until recently, most research into the hominin behaviour at Olduvai have focused on Beds I and II sequences, with little focus on the hominin behaviour in upper beds. In addition, most previous studies relied heavily on the interpretation of stone tool types without conducting a full technological analysis of the assemblages. Through a first-hand reanalysis of previously excavated lithic collections by Mary Leakey and the Olduvai Gorge Archaeology Project (OGAP), this study provides evidence of hominin technological behaviour in Beds II, III, and IV, a crucial time period for the existence of the Acheulean technology at Olduvai Gorge. This technological analysis shows occurrence of reduction sequence that indicates that hominins aimed at producing small flakes and cores. Exploitation of cores appears to be expedient and low to medium intensity. Retouched tools are mostly notches, alongside other retouched tool types such as denticulates and sidescrapers. Results on the comparison of technological aspects between sites reveal a well-defined and standardised procedure, ranging from raw material selection to tool making, maintenance and discarding. This technological organisation of the Acheulean sites of Olduvai is indicative of a remarkable technological advancement and organisational skills. This strongly suggests the existence of technical procedures that were systematically executed by hominins at these sites and underscores the organised technological behaviour of the Acheulean hominins at Olduvai Gorge.

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