DOGGERLAND Meaning and
Definition
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Doggerland is a term used to describe a submerged landmass that existed during the Mesolithic period, approximately 18,000 to 5,500 years ago. It was located in what is now the southern North Sea, connecting the British Isles to mainland Europe. This vast area, which covered an estimated 23,000 square miles, stretched from present-day east coast of England to the coasts of Denmark and the Netherlands.
During the last ice age, large portions of the world's water were locked up in glaciers. As a result, sea levels were significantly lower, exposing vast areas of land that are now underwater. Doggerland represented one of these land bridges, acting as a bridge between the British Isles and mainland Europe.
The landmass was inhabited by a variety of fauna and flora, including early human populations. It provided a fertile environment for hunting, fishing, and gathering, supporting a thriving Mesolithic culture. Ancient artifacts, such as tools and weapons, have been discovered in underwater archaeological sites, providing invaluable insights into the lives of these ancient inhabitants.
The gradual melting of glaciers and subsequent rise in sea levels eventually led to the submergence of Doggerland. Today, only fragments of this submerged landmass remain, mostly in the form of sandbanks and fishing grounds. The term "Doggerland," derived from the Dogger Bank, a prominent feature in the region, is used to refer to this lost landscape and its significance in understanding prehistoric human civilization and the natural history of the North Sea region.
Etymology of DOGGERLAND
The word "Doggerland" originates from the combination of two terms: "Dogger" and "land".
The term "Dogger" refers to a shallow area in the North Sea that has historically been known for its abundant fishing grounds. The name most likely comes from the Dutch word "dogger", which means "a fishing vessel" or "a two-masted fishing boat". It is believed that Dutch fishermen used this area extensively for their fishing activities.
The term "land" is simply derived from the Old English word "land", which means "earth" or "ground".
When these two words are combined, "Doggerland" refers to the land that existed in the area now covered by the North Sea, particularly during the last Ice Age.
