The article delves into the longstanding debate among archaeologists about gender roles in ancient European societies, particularly during the hunter-gatherer period. It raises questions about whether men and women were truly equal in these societies, referencing the controversial work of archaeologist Marija Gimbutas, who suggested that ancient Europe was peaceful and egalitarian. The exploration of archaeological sites like Catalhoyuk and Vinča provides insights into what can be discerned about the social structures of these prehistorical communities, particularly regarding gender roles.

The discussion shifts to the emergence of patriarchal societies and whether this shift was influenced by migrating tribes from Central Asia or if patriarchal norms were already in place in Europe by that time. Archaeological evidence is examined to understand how societies transitioned from potential equality to the establishment of patriarchal structures, pinpointing critical influences such as agriculture and trade, specifically the emergence of the plow and the salt trade. The article offers a nuanced view of human evolutionary history, contrasting the social structures of humans with those of our closest relatives, chimpanzees and bonobos, to illustrate the complexities of human behavior regarding patriarchy and matriarchy.

In the end, it suggests that human societies are not strictly defined as matriarchal or patriarchal, but rather encompass elements of both systems. This reflection on gender equality in our prehistory invites readers to reconsider the narratives of our past and how they influence contemporary views on gender roles.