ABSOLUTE CHRONOLOGY OF THE EARLY BRONZE AGE IN CENTRAL EUROPE, MIDDLE BRONZE AGE IN EASTERN EUROPE, AND THE “2200 EVENT”

Abstract

Currently, incomparable dating systems are used in archaeology, based on historical chronology, dendrochronology, and two types of radiocarbon dates: LSC and AMS. But the latter suggest, as a rule, the earlier dates. Contrary to this, the intervals based on the historical chronology and dendrochronology are quite comparable. And intervals obtained by means of Bayesian statistics of AMS dates are very close. The problem is also aggravated by the fact that the use of the standard typological method does not allow complexes to be synchronized accurately, since the duration of existence of some type can be different in two areas. More accurate evidence can be taken from the first appearance of any cultural complex as a result of migration. Such migrations were usually forced by natural disasters. Correspondently, the latter can be used as a chronological benchmark, that makes it possible the processes in remote areas to be connected. Basing on all this, a system of chronology of the European EBA, eastern European MBA and of the so called “2200 even” is suggested. The obtained interval became younger and shorter than those based on the radiocarbon chronology.

Keywords

• absolute chronology, european eba, radiocarbon, historical chronology, migrations