Abstract:
Understanding the past human adaptations to the
environmental changes along the southern coastal area of Sri
Lanka caused by sea-level fluctuations during the Holocene
period has not yet been clearly understood. The present study aims
to interpret the interactions between humans and the environment
during the Holocene. Sequential soil samples were obtained
from test pits and exposed profiles at five selected prehistoric
human occupation sites located in the southern coastal area. The
stratigraphy, which was determined based on field investigations
and, the grain size distribution and textural parameters of soil
samples were employed to establish the depositional environments
of the study sites. The stratigraphy and, textural characteristics of
sediments at Pallemalala, Mini-Athiliya, and Kalametiya revealed
that marginal lagoonal and fluvial environmental conditions have
prevailed as a result of Mid-Holocene sea-level fluctuations.
Conversely, the stratigraphy and sediments at Bundala indicate
the influence of storm waves. In addition, Henagahapugala
assumed to be occupied by prehistoric populations, seems to be a
river channel and reveals comparatively less evidence of human
occupation. This evidence indicates that the marginal fluvial/
marine environments were preferred by prehistoric people due to
the accessibility and availability of a variety of highly nutritious
dietary resources, freshwater sources, and source materials for
stone implements. Therefore, it is possible to conclude that the
marginal environments created by Mid-Holocene sea-level
fluctuations resulted in technological and cultural transformations
of prehistoric people in Sri Lanka.
