The Socio-Economical Character of the A-Group in Lower Nubia (c. 3700-2800 BCE)

Abstract

This paper aims to define the socio-economic order of the A-Group in Lower Nubia. The nature of this group has been discussed by several researchers using regional archeological data, but no agreement has been reached. Different interpretations are partly the product of diverse definitions of sedentism and nomadism, and of models commonly used to explain the socio-economical character of A-Group communities. These concepts are often loosely applied without clear definition and evidence supporting the models is often lacking. For this reason, the paper begins by defining concepts such as nomadic pastoralism and sedentism, which are central to this investigation. The approach of different ethno-archaeological papers is also a fundamental methodological tool for the paper. After considering theoretical and methodological tools and the study of archaeological material belonging to the A-Group, the paper postulates that this group could have organized itself as a semi-sedentary community, which exploited diverse ecological niches in Lower Nubia.