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FutureLearn

Archaeology of Past Nomads on the Mongolian Steppe

via FutureLearn

Overview

Discover more about ancient nomads on Mongolia’s steppe

Mongolia has a rich history dating back thousands of years, characterised by the nomadic lifestyle of its people.

From ancient times to the era of imperial nomads, uncovering Mongolia’s heritage is vital for understanding the roots of contemporary Mongolian culture and its impact on world history.

Peel back the past with this online archaeology course from the National University of Mongolia. You’ll have the opportunity to explore historical sites, monuments, and artefacts to learn more about life on the Mongolian steppe.

Dig deep into archaeological studies to reveal more about Mongolia’s nomadic past

You’ll begin this course by learning the fundamentals of archaeology, particularly as it relates to mobile communities.

Focusing specifically on past nomads in Mongolia, you’ll explore how archaeological studies shed light on their lifestyles, cultural practices, and contributions to broader anthropological topics, such as the construction of monumental structures and urban development of nomadic settlements.

Unearth past lives on the steppe by analysing artefacts, dwelling sites, and other material evidence from the Mongol empire

During the second half of this course, you’ll delve into how states formed on the Mongolian Steppe and explore the intriguing political processes that shaped ancient societies.

You’ll also discover fascinating insights into the daily lives of nomads through the critical study of dwelling sites, providing a unique perspective on their culture and social organisation.

By the course’s end, you’ll possess the tools to uncover deeper insights into Mongolia’s ancient history, and you’ll be able to apply this knowledge to different studies of archaeological sites and historical periods.

This course is designed for anyone studying or interested in archaeology and its related disciplines.

It will be particularly insightful for learners wishing to know more about nomadic societies and Mongolian history.

Syllabus

  • Archaeology of Mobile Societies
    • Concept of Space
    • Concept of Mobility
    • Relationship of People and Animals
    • Terminologies and Additional Information
  • Large-Scale Monumentality
    • Large-Scale Monumentality and Khirigsuurs
    • Chronological Analysis of Khirigsuurs
    • Prestige Display and Khirigsuurs
    • Terminologies and Additional Information
  • Archaeology of the Mongol Empire and Urbanism
    • The Mongol Empire
    • Prelude to the Mongol Empire: Early Nature of Urbanism and its Archaeology
    • Urbanism during the Mongol Empire
    • Terminologies and Additional Information
  • Tracing Socio-Political Changes through Archaeology
    • Monuments as Source of Information for Socio-Political Changes
    • The Local Approach
    • The Regional Approach
    • Terminologies and Additional Information
  • Nomads as a State Builders
    • States and Nomads: The Problem
    • Historical Perspective
    • Alternative perspectives on the formation of the Xiongnu state
    • Terminologies and Additional Information
  • Habitation Archaeology
    • Archaeology and Habitation Sites of Past Nomads
    • Methods of Finding and Testing Habitation Site
    • Current Studies of Habitation Sites in Mongolia
    • Terminologies and Additional Information

Taught by

Jargalan Burentogtokh

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