STRONGHOLDS OF THE TAIGA.

The article discusses the discovery of a Neolithic fortified settlement called the Amnya complex in western Siberia, dating back to 6000 BCE. This settlement challenges previous assumptions about social complexity and the transition from hunter-gatherer to agrarian societies. The fortifications were likely built to protect and accumulate surplus food, as the area was abundant in fish. The presence of pottery indicates the development of new technologies and food processing methods. The article also explores the use of defensive tactics and the adoption of new religious rituals by the Neolithic people. The fortified settlements continued to be used in later periods, serving as storage points for fur trade and reflecting social changes. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding the role of ecosystems in shaping human societies and highlights the challenges faced by Indigenous peoples in the region today. [Extracted from the article]