Question

Bolas are from:

• A. Palaeolithic
• B. Mesolithic
• C. Neolithic
• D. Chalcolithic

Hint:

Associate tool types with their periods. Palaeolithic is known for hunting large animals, so tools like bolas fit this context. Mesolithic is about adapting to smaller game with microliths. Neolithic is about farming tools.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the archaeological period associated with bolas. A bola (or bolas) is a throwing weapon made of weights on the ends of interconnected cords, used to capture animals by entangling their legs. In the archaeological record, what is found are the stone weights, known as bola stones.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Bolas are a type of hunting tool associated with hunting medium to large-sized game, which was characteristic of the Palaeolithic period.
- Spherical stones, often found in sets of three and sometimes with grooves for tying cords, have been interpreted as bola stones. These have been found at Palaeolithic sites in Europe, Africa, and Asia.
- The subsequent periods are characterized by different technologies: - Mesolithic: Microliths (small composite tools). - Neolithic: Polished stone tools and agriculture. - Chalcolithic: Use of copper alongside stone tools.
- While hunting continued, the specific technology of bolas is considered a Palaeolithic innovation for big-game hunting.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Bolas are a hunting weapon whose archaeological evidence (bola stones) is found in Palaeolithic contexts.