Warfare in the Neolithic?
An Examination of the Evidence

Joan Marler (USA)

According to abundant documentation, Bronze Age cultures were typically stratified and warfare was a common feature of the period.  In contrast, archaeological remains from the earlier Neolithic cultures of the region indicate more peaceful coexistence and the absence of weapons for war. Marija Gimbutas’ assertion that organized warfare did not exist in Neolithic Europe until after 4400 BC has met with skepticism.  Although evidence for warfare is rare before this pivotal period, many scholars continue to assume that warfare in Neolithic Europe must nevertheless have existed.  The purpose of this paper is to present a preliminary examination of evidence presented on both sides of this question to explore whether or not Old Europe was indeed peaceful as Gimbutas has claimed.