New configurations in old world archaeology

Abstract

The tree‐ring calibration of radiocarbon dates from the fifth to the first millennium B.C. is revolutionizing the absolute chronology of prehistoric Europe. After a survey of the scientific background, the implications and effects of these changes are considered. A new chronology is tentatively presented in tabular form. The very magnitude of the changes emphasizes how erroneous much recent diffusionist thinking has been, and how sterile much chronological discussion. The moral is drawn that we should be seeking configurations among the data of a different kind: the point is illustrated by reference to the prehistory of Malta.