The Caucasus

This book examines the Caucasus as a cultural bridge, highlighting its role in transferring innovations from Mesopotamia to Europe during ancient times.

In The Caucasus, the author explores the pivotal role of this region as a cultural bridge between Mesopotamia and Europe during the 4th and early 3rd millennia BC. This book delves into the transformative period from the Chalcolithic to the Bronze Age, examining how innovations flowed through the geographical expanse from the Levant to the Pontic steppe and Carpathian Basin. The narrative highlights the significant exchange of knowledge and technology, which included groundbreaking advancements such as the wheel, the wagon, and the domestication of the horse.

The 4th millennium BC was marked by a remarkable transfer of innovations that would shape societies for centuries to come. New materials like silver and the techniques of copper alloying emerged during this time, fundamentally altering trade and craftsmanship. Additionally, the book discusses the impact of agricultural developments, including the outbreeding of woolly sheep, which contributed to the economic foundations of various cultures. Through a series of contributions presented at an international conference, The Caucasus offers a comprehensive examination of these historical shifts.

By focusing on the intersection of cultures and technologies, The Caucasus provides valuable insights into how this region facilitated the flow of innovations that connected distant civilizations. The book serves as a crucial resource for understanding the historical significance of the Caucasus in shaping the trajectory of human development across Europe and the Near East.