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History of Fences
The history of fences probably dates back to ancient days of prehistoric man. But before delving into the hsitory it is worthwhile considering the definition of a fence.
When we think of fence it is usually of a type of barrier that provides a basic kind of barrier yet it often flexible and light weight, being able to see through the fence is important also, as distinct from a wall.
An example of an ancient fence structure can be found at Buster Ancient Farm in the UK
see http://www.butser.org.uk/iaff_hcc.html
Because of the often semi-temporary nature of fences, typically made out of wood, the archaelogical evidence of fences is often difficult to spot.
Some fences would have been grown from hedges or plantings of trees.
You can see an example of possible Roman style fence, though more likely to be a military style at a google image search for roman fences
One of the major early uses of fences would have been in the development of the domestication of animals. Being able to keep animals enclosed in an area would have been important for early commerce. Agricultural fences would have been a signficant technological development from a more hunter gatherer society.
see: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agricultural_fencing
References sources:
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A common wooden fence.
A Boma fence in Africa is probably one of the earliest styles of fence, here can be seen containing animals