hi,
I'm trying to find out if there are any models for the medieval period south of the Sahara in West Africa that can be used to reconstitute the number of inhabitants at a site from the number of burials. I know the period when the site was in operation and the number of burials, but I'm not sure about the mortality rate. Mauny used a ratio of 100 to 200 inhabitants per hectare, which I find disproportionate for a Saharan site.
Thanks for any help
LJ
Hello,
In response to your inquiry about whether there exist models applicable to the medieval period south of the Sahara in West Africa for reconstructing the number of inhabitants at a site from the number of burials, the current literature does not specify a particular model. Nevertheless, archaeologists and anthropologists deploy various methods to estimate populations, such as the life expectancy "e0'" or "the mortality rate." It would be beneficial to examine articles from past Mediterranean populations (Alesan et al., 1999; Jordana & Malgosa, 2002; López-Martínez, 2000; Galera et al., 1994; Pujol et al., 2011).
When evaluating a specific site, numerous factors must be considered, encompassing burial practices, social structure, disease prevalence, and more. Your observation about Mauny's use of a ratio of 100 to 200 inhabitants per hectare, deemed disproportionate for a Saharan site, is noteworthy. Adjusting these ratios based on the specific geographical and cultural context is advisable, and you may also need to consider other factors that could provide valuable insights.
I recommend delving into relevant archaeological literature, particularly studies centered on the medieval period in West Africa, to explore whether other scholars have proposed similar models or alternative methods for population estimation. Moreover, engaging in discussions with experts in the field could yield additional insights. Best of luck with your research!
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