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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Environment and Subsistence of the Early Inhabitants of Coastal Southwestern Nigeria
Author:Alabi, Raphael A.ISNI
Year:2002
Periodical:African Archaeological Review
Volume:19
Issue:4
Period:December
Pages:183-201
Language:English
Geographic term:Nigeria
Subjects:archaeology
prehistory
Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups)
Anthropology and Archaeology
External link:https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021259003743
Abstract:From where did the early inhabitants of the Badagry coastal area of southwestern Nigeria originate? Has the area been occupied from ancient times, as claimed by oral traditions? What was the nature of the environment and subsistence of these early inhabitants? Excavations carried out between 1993 and 1995 at Apa, west of Badagry, provided answers to these questions. A radiocarbon date of 2670 plus or minus 90 bp showed that human occupation there is at least 3000 years old, which implies occupation during the Late Stone Age. The occupation was in two phases: a prehistoric phase, during which Apa site 1 was occupied, and a historic phase, with occupation of Apa site 2. Sedimentological and archaeological data also showed that the environment at the beginning of occupation was similar to today. The presence of a groundstone axe, charred palm kernels, and charcoal at the Ap1 site is interpreted to imply the clearing and burning of vegetation, probably preparatory to planting and the exploitation of oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) from about 2670 plus or minus 90 bp. Bibliogr., sum. in English and French. [Journal abstract]
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