This dissertation aims to examine the place of the wheel in Late Bronze Age Britain. Also, it will consider the presence of the physical and implied evidence for wheeled transport, alongside arguing that this amalgamation of evidence is...
moreThis dissertation aims to examine the place of the wheel in Late Bronze Age Britain. Also, it will consider the presence of the physical and implied evidence for wheeled transport, alongside arguing that this amalgamation of evidence is feasible enough to create a comprehensive outline regarding the nature of the use of the wheel and wheeled vehicles in Late Bronze Age Britain. Consideration of the development of transport allows us to gain a unique insight into the social mobility of Bronze Age peoples. Advancements in movement technology, such as oxen-drawn wagons and horse-drawn chariots, furthered the ability for societies to carry people, cargo and ideas over vast stretches of land, well beyond what otherwise would have been their immediate catchment area. This technological advancement also provides reason for the wide distribution of regionally stylistic artefacts. Archaeological examples of these vehicles, and how they can be contextually considered, also aids us in understanding the individuality of Bronze Age people and cultures, as exemplified through the ceremonial wagons of the Urnfield culture and votive wheel depositions (Pare 1992; Raftery 1996). In brief, the study of the wheel and wheeled vehicles allows us to reveal the practical, everyday realities of land management of the Later Bronze Age.
