Workingman’s death – Burials of Bronze Age copper producers in Eastern Serbia

Abstract

This paper discusses metal-producing Bronze Age societies in East Serbia with a particular focus on the associated urn cemeteries of local copper producers. As recent investigations have revealed, copper production sites and the associated urn cemeteries are significantly older (EBA-MBA) than previously assumed. The study delves into the complexity of resource exploitation, technological processes, and socio-economic implications associated with copper mining and smelting. Initially seen as a source of wealth and prestige, current archaeological evidence suggests that direct enrichment and significant prosperity from copper production was limited and at least debatable. Despite their extensive engagement in copper production, communities in the territory of today’s eastern Serbia show minimal signs of social hierarchy or wealth accumulation, as their archaeological record reflects communal burial practices and egalitarian societal structures. In contrast, neighbouring regions exhibit opulent metal objects that highlight disparities in socio-economic dynamics.