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The Emergence of the Iberians in 1400 BCE
Around 1400 BCE, the Iberian Peninsula witnessed the emergence of a distinct cultural and ethnic group known as the Iberians. This period falls within the Late Bronze Age, a time of significant social and technological transformation in Europe.
The origins of the Iberians remain debated among historians and archaeologists. Some theories suggest they were an indigenous people who developed from earlier local populations, while others propose they migrated from North Africa or other parts of the Mediterranean. Genetic and linguistic studies indicate a mix of indigenous ancestry with influences from other Mediterranean cultures.
By 1400 BCE, the Iberians were part of a broader Atlantic Bronze Age cultural complex, characterized by:
- Advanced metallurgy: Increased production of bronze tools, weapons, and ornaments.
- Fortified settlements: Hilltop villages (oppida) with defensive walls, indicating organized societies.
- Trade networks: Connections with other Bronze Age cultures, including the Tartessians in southern Iberia and possibly the Phoenicians (who arrived later, around 1000 BCE).
The Iberians flourished until the Roman conquest in the 2nd century BCE. Their culture influenced later civilizations in Iberia, including the Celtiberians (a fusion of Celtic and Iberian peoples).
Conclusion:
The appearance of the Iberians in 1400 BCE marks a key phase in the peninsula's history, setting the stage for later interactions with Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans. While much remains uncertain about their exact origins, their impact on Iberian history is undeniable.
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