The Development of Cultural and Social Complexity in Mongolia

摘要: Pastoral nomadic peoples are not usually thought of as architects complex political organization. Most anthropological and historical literature on nomads repeats a common theme when it comes to their organizational potential—due mobility, lack economic surplus, fierce independence, herders tend organize politically, or do so only small-scale temporary basis. Not surprisingly, such theories have difficulty accounting for the empires Mongolia which were large, complex, powerful, numerous. Yet, dominant explanations polities Asian steppe suggest that they must been dependent sedentary neighbors critical resources models This historically embedded concept raiders along frontiers depending appropriating neighboring states is still alive well in twenty-first century scholarship. Archaeological approaches, however, changing these stereotypical ideas about societies many parts Old World generated new conceptions complexity. The material record left behind by ancient herding tells very different story lifeways I review recent archaeological research beginning with earliest adoption herd animals ending rise first state. During this time span more than 3000 years, archaeology has documented sophisticated cultures, advanced technologies, experiments kinds formations. These early precedents produced foundations underwrote subsequent Mongolia.