A woman buried in Jordan in the Neolithic era

The Pre-Pottery Neolithic C (PPNC) period in the Levantine region, particularly in what is now modern-day Jordan, is a fascinating era of human development. The Levant is a region that includes parts of modern-day countries like Jordan, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine. The PPNC era, which dates from around 8200 to 7000 BCE, marks a transitional phase in the history of human settlement and cultural evolution following the Pre-Pottery Neolithic A (PPNA) and Pre-Pottery Neolithic B (PPNB) periods.

Environment and Geography: The climate of this era was generally more humid than today, although it was beginning to dry and become more varied, influencing the types of vegetation and wildlife present. This climate supported a diverse ecosystem that included woodlands, steppe, and grasslands, supporting a variety of flora and fauna. The region's geography encompassed fertile areas near rivers and more arid landscapes, providing different resources and challenges for settling communities.

Settlement Patterns: The PPNC period was characterized by more permanent settlements compared to the earlier Natufian culture, which was largely characterized by semi-nomadic lifestyles. The transition to agricultural societies became more pronounced during this era. Settlements typically featured mudbrick or stone-built structures, indicating a shift towards more enduring architectural practices.

Agriculture and Economy: Agriculture played a crucial role in the PPNC, with communities increasingly engaging in the cultivation of crops such as wheat, barley, and legumes. This era saw the beginning, or intensification, of domesticated animal rearing, with sheep and goats becoming more prevalent. These activities supported growing populations and allowed for the storage of surplus products, facilitating economic stability and trade.

Social Structure and Culture: Communities during the PPNC were likely organized into tribal or clan-based societies. Artifacts from the period suggest the presence of social stratification or specialization, indicated by the diversity in tool types and forms of artistic expression. The use of personal adornments, such as beads and pendants, was common, implying social or ritual significance.

The religious or spiritual life of the people may have included ancestor worship or veneration of natural elements, as suggested by burial practices and the orientation of some structures. Ritual objects and possible shrines discovered in sites like 'Ain Ghazal give credence to these interpretations.

Technology and Tools: The PPNC era continued to see advances in the technology and crafting of tools. The manufacture of flint tools such as arrowheads, knives, and scrapers became more sophisticated. Evidence of stone carving, particularly in limestone and basalt, represents a keen understanding of materials and an advance in artistic and functional craftsmanship.

Art and Symbolism: Art in the PPNC period was manifested in the form of small figurines, carvings, and decorated objects. These items reflected both everyday life and possibly spiritual beliefs. Figurines often depicted human or animal figures, which might have played roles in rituals or been used as amulets.

End of the Era: The end of the PPNC period saw further environmental shifts leading towards more arid conditions, which may have contributed to migrations and adaptive changes in human lifestyles. This period was succeeded by the Pottery Neolithic period, which was marked by the advent of pottery-making technology that significantly affected storage and cooking practices.

The Pre-Pottery Neolithic C of Jordan and the wider Levantine area stands as a crucial moment in prehistoric development, providing insights into human adaptability, social evolution, and the ingenious solutions developed by our ancestors in response to environmental and social challenges.