Adaptation strategies in reindeer herding among the Evenki (Tungus) peoples: implications for the collapse of the Hongshan culture

Abstract

The abundance of empirical evidence from both direct observations and environmental proxy data overwhelmingly supports the reality of global warming, leaving little room for scientific controversy regarding temperature increases. The perceptions of climate change among the Evenki align closely with scientific research findings, indicating their heavy dependence on the natural environment and the significant impact of climate change on their subsistence. The Evenki people, who are reindeer herders, exhibit high resiliency in facing the challenges caused by climate change. The examination of modern Evenki people provides new insight for reconsidering the collapse of the Hongshan Culture. When confronted with climate change during the late Neolithic period, the Hongshan Culture demonstrated greater resilience and reduced vulnerability following a restructuring in response to a catastrophic stimulus.