The Decline and Fall of Flint

Abstract

Since Rosen is looking at the Near East metal production, there is the one difference of gradual introduction of the technology as opposed to the rapid diffusion by the Europeans. Nevertheless, there are a few similarities in usage that I feel apply to the study of metal use in North America. Firstly, chipped stone tools were not instantly replaced, for the appropriation of a new technology takes time, and the bronze and copper tools were not always available in sufficient quantities (Rosen, 1996:131). Secondly, copper was too soft for harvesting purposes, so we see that flint sickles continue to be used. Flint tools continued to be used domestically for expediency, while bronze tools were used for specialized production or for producing luxury items (Rosen, 1996:149). And, contrary to popular belief, copper production did not actually stimulate trade route expansion but instead followed it (Rosen, 1996:148). Flint does decline over time, but less in absolute numbers compared to the decrease in typological diversity, as only those expedient designs are kept. I believe we might see some similar patterns among the Huron over time.