In lithic archaeology, basal thinning refers to the intentional removal of flakes from the base of a stone tool or projectile point to make it thinner and easier to haft. It is a hallmark of Paleoindian technology, especially in North America, and is closely associated with fluted points like Clovis.

🌍 Definition

• Basal Thinning: The process of striking or pressure-flaking flakes off the basal edge of a biface or projectile point.
• Purpose: To reduce thickness at the base, facilitating secure attachment to a shaft with sinew or fiber bindings.
• Orientation: Applied to the basal edge and sometimes extending upward along the midline.

🔑 Archaeological Contexts

• Paleoindian Points:
  • Clovis points often exhibit basal thinning in combination with fluting.
  • Other traditions (e.g., Dalton points) use basal thinning without full fluting.
• Hafting Technology:
  • Thinner bases allowed bindings to grip tightly without slippage.
  • Reduced risk of splitting shafts during use.
• Diagnostic Feature:
  • Basal thinning is a key trait for identifying Paleoindian artifacts.
  • Helps distinguish between point types and cultural traditions.

📚 Importance in Anthropology

• Technological Insight: Shows advanced flintknapping skill and foresight in tool design.
• Cultural Identity: Specific thinning techniques are linked to particular archaeological cultures.
• Comparative Value: Highlights differences between fluted, stemmed, and notched hafting strategies.
• Material Culture: Reflects manipulation of minerals like flint, chert, and obsidian to achieve precise tool morphology.

In short: Basal thinning is the removal of flakes from the base of stone points to facilitate hafting, a diagnostic hallmark of Paleoindian lithic technology.