Some Controversial Problems in the Study of Bronze Age Sites in the Volga-Manich Steppes

Abstract

This paper discusses the problem, which type of economy and culture type the Bronze Age finds in the steppe land located between the rivers of Volga and Manych are to be assigned to. Following the history of research, three stages in dealing with this issue can be distinguished: the theory of the first stage assigns the finds to cattle breeding cultures; in the second stage it was argued that it was a culture of nomadic cattle breeders, in the third stage both theories were put forward simultaneously. However, these research results were based on finds from burials only. Material recovered from Settlements that, due to their small proportions, are only considered as seasonal Settlements of cattle breeders, remain virtually unexplored. Consequently, a new method of research is called for, in the opinion of the author.