Hunting: A Cultural History (The MIT Press Essential Knowledge series)

Hunting, from Stone Age hunter-gatherers to modern sport hunters, has a long history that is presented in this book. Hunting began with our hominid ancestors, who used spears to hunt instead of scavenging. Cave paintings at Lascaux show a deep understanding of animal behavior and anatomy, suggesting that hunting was a crucial skill for early humans. The book explores hunting in the Stone Age and how agriculture led to the rise of empires and elite hunting monopolies. It also examines the democratization of hunting in the American colonies and how hunters saved game animals from extinction in the 20th century. Additionally, it discusses how some societies manage wildlife and hunting, the challenges of living with abundant wildlife, and the implications of women’s increasing participation in hunting.

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