Ethnohistories from Upper Nile South Sudan - Else Kleppe Johansen

This book presents the results of archaeological and ethnohistorical fieldwork in the Renk area (now in South Sudan) between 1975 and 1983 at the sites of Debbat El Eheima, Debbat Bangdit, and Debbat Alali. Radiocarbon dates from Debbat El Eheima indicated a time span of 1800-600 BCE, whereas those from Debbat Bangdit indicated 400-1600 CE. Small iron objects from Debbat El Eheima associated with these dates suggest early settlement (1100-800 BCE) but not necessarily iron production. Excavations at Debbat El Eheima and Debbat Bangdit revealed parts of graves and one complete infant grave. Potsherds used as grave covers suggested burial and subsequent memorial rituals. Pottery classification indicated some distinctive types, which are illustrated in this book. Despite their time difference, Debbat El Eheima and Debbat Bangdit showed shared features, and links with historical and ethnographic evidence and other documentation suggest a broader sociocultural affiliation that can be called a Nilotic great tradition.