The Iron Age people, who lived between 1200 BC and the beginning of the Middle Ages, had a wide range of domesticated animals. These animals played a crucial role in their daily lives, providing food, labor, and companionship.
Common Domesticated Animals:
- Cattle: Cattle were a primary source of milk, meat, and hides for leather. They were also used for plowing fields and transporting goods.
- Sheep: Sheep provided wool for clothing and blankets, as well as meat.
- Goats: Goats offered milk, meat, and hides, similar to sheep. They were also known for their ability to graze on rough terrain.
- Pigs: Pigs were raised for their meat and were often kept for their waste, which could be used as fertilizer.
- Horses: Horses were used for transportation, warfare, and agricultural work.
- Donkeys: Donkeys were strong and hardy animals used for carrying loads and traveling long distances.
- Dogs: Dogs were kept as guard animals, hunting companions, and for companionship.
- Chickens: Chickens provided eggs and meat.
Evidence of Animal Domestication:
Archaeological evidence like bones, tools, and artwork provides insights into the types of animals kept by Iron Age people. The presence of domesticated animals in burial sites suggests their importance in religious beliefs and social status.
Impact of Animal Domestication:
The domestication of animals had a significant impact on the Iron Age. It allowed people to develop more efficient agriculture, expand their diet, and improve their overall quality of life. It also contributed to the development of trade networks and social hierarchies.
