Mining, Community, and Environment

Abstract

The previous chapters in this book have reviewed the extensive research carried out on prehistoric copper mines in Europe. Numerous site investigations provide detailed information on the geological setting of these mines and the types of ore minerals extracted. The same studies yield important insights into methods of rock extraction, ore beneficiation, and smelting, and the overall organization of those activities. Building on this solid base of information, it is possible to move beyond an understanding of mining as a technological process to an emphasis on the prehistoric communities involved. The technical details and logistics of the mining process continue to be important, but are now considered as part of a socially informed chaîne opératoire of early metal production. Mining in the modern era is regarded as an economic activity; however, there is also a distinctive character to the individuals and communities who engage in that work. This is also true of prehistoric mining, which was undertaken within specific historical contexts that were structured by particular sets of cultural values. It was a highly social activity, involving closely-knit groups of individuals working together towards a common purpose, in situations where they depended on each other for their safety. With no written records, the challenge for researchers is to understand these social dynamics using material correlates available in the archaeological record. As in other areas of prehistory, there are certain limits to the inferences that can be made using this type of evidence. That said, the significance of metal to later prehistoric societies provides a broad indication of the importance of mining as an activity. A concern with the social background of these miners goes back to the earliest research in this field. The gradual move towards a ‘social archaeology’ of early copper mining reflects broader paradigm shifts in modern archaeology, away from culture historical explanations to more interpretative understandings of the material record. While recognizing the dangers of cross-cultural generalization, ethnohistoric studies serve to illustrate the vivid social history of mining communities.