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Bosutswe is an archaeological site at the edge of the Kalahari Desert in Botswana on top of Bosutswe Hill. The site can be dated back to around 700 AD. The location of Bosutswe makes it easy for archaeologists to study as the record of the site is continuous. It is believed that the area was occupied consistently for around 1000 years. It was known for its advanced metalworking which first appeared in the 1300AD which is known as the Lose Period. The Lose Period is named after the elite class that can be found in the area.

The early history of Bosutswe is marked with evidence of a pastoralist-based economy. There is evidence of cattle, sheep, and goats. Once metalworking was introduced, it appears that wealth began to grow increasingly prominent among those who lived there. Throughout Bosutswe’s history, the evolution of its culture can be seen through the type of buildings its residents have and the different ceramics. Evidence for trade with other sites can be demonstrated through the ceramics as well as the discovery of objections that can be traced to the Indian Ocean.

Metalworking was very important to the history of the site. Smithing can be traced back to Bosutswe during the Early Lose Period. There are no physical pieces of iron to be found from this same time period because the material is not well preserved in the soil of Bosutswe Hill.

Metalworking
Though there is some evidence supporting smithing in the Early Lose Period, most of the evidence can be traced to the Middle Lose Period.

Trade
The rise of Bosutswe's power can be attributed to trade. It became the heart of their society. It was seen as a primary stop before heading farther into Africa.