Science Quickly London Fish Chip Away at Historical Unknowns
Jun 6, 2014
Discover how isotope composition within fish tails found in London archaeological digs reveals the city's shift from local to imported fish in the 13th century, suggesting its emergence as an economic hub with a globalized fish trade.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
London's Arctic Cod Imports
- By the early 13th century, Londoners began importing cod from Arctic Norway instead of relying solely on local catches.
- This shift signals London's growing economic importance and integration into a northern European fish trade network.
Fishing's Role in Urban Growth
- Around the year 1000, sea fishing increased significantly in Northern Europe, influencing urban growth and trade.
- London's fish imports reflect its rise as a growing economic center linked to early globalization trends.
Fish Bones Reveal Import Evidence
- The decrease in fish heads and increase in tails in London archaeological finds suggest dried cod was imported rather than locally caught.
- Chemical isotope analysis of tails confirmed many fish originated in northern Scandinavian waters near Norway.