Answer to Question #145257 in History for Suprise

Question

Briefly discuss the main ways in which precolonial hunter-gatherers societies survived in southern Africa

Answer 1

• Nomads.

The Khoikhoi and the San people were the main people who were hunters and gatherers in the South African region. They never lived a permanent life in a given area, hence they kept on moving from one place to another in search of food, favorable weather conditions and as well as running away from serious happening of misfortunes in their current place.

• Hunting

The San people used stones, bones and wood to make weapons and tools. They invented their own bow and arrow which were used in hunting of antelopes and buffaloes. Their hand bows were usually dipped in poison which was extracted from snake venom, plants and as well as beetle larvae. They would dip their arrows and spears in that poison before going out for hunting. Proceeds from hunting were used to supplement for the population.

• Food

The San people ate animals that they hunted and proceeds of fruits and seeds they gathered. Insects such as beetles, caterpillars and termites among others were also eaten by the people. Also wild honey was their best delicacy.