The history and development of Quaternary Science in South Africa

Abstract

Research in Quaternary Science in South Africa has developed rapidly over recent decades, growing into a strongly interdisciplinary and increasingly applied science. A historical overview of the discipline is provided, outlining its roots and placing the first studies in southern Africa in context, highlighting the contributions of pioneering researchers within the field here. The inherent methodological difficulties of working in a semi-arid environment have promoted the application and development of diverse, and sometimes novel archives and proxies. Indeed, there has been a noticeable shift away from traditional pollen-based climate reconstructions to a more diverse range of approaches, including multi-proxy evidence. The growth of the palaeosciences in South Africa has been supported by national research strategies and targeted funding instruments, and the promotion of environmental change research in general by national research networks.