Lithic Techno-economics and OSL Chronology of the Later Stone Age at Chessungalane, Save River Valley, Mozambique

Abstract

Nestled between East and Southern Africa, the Stone Age archaeology of Mozambique offers important insights into Later Stone Age (LSA) behavioral variability across a region pivotal to understanding human adaptations. Here, we present results from technological analysis, refitting and optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating of the newly discovered site of Chessungalane (CHE) in south-central Mozambique. OSL dates indicate occupation spanning ~ 23–7 ka, corresponding to the early LSA through Wilton periods. Technological analysis of lithic artifacts, refitting, and raw material survey reveals differential technological investment strategies employed by LSA groups. Chert was introduced during last occupation phase for systematic bladelet production through complex reduction sequences, likely due to its scarcity and superior knapping qualities. In contrast, quartz and quartzite were procured during all the occupation phases for simple flake production via shorter, simpler reduction sequences, reflecting their local abundance and fracture constraints. Preliminary comparison with contemporaneous LSA sequences from the broader region suggests that CHE followed a distinct technological trajectory, with bladelet production appearing significantly later in time, highlighting the importance of regional variability in shaping LSA technological behavior. The results demonstrate a strong relationship between raw material availability, quality, and technological investment, and contribute critical new data to the largely undocumented LSA record of Mozambique.