"Hunter-gatherers" is a term generally used to describe people from ancient societies who survived exclusively by hunting, fishing, or gathering wild foods. There is controversy today among scientists, however, as to whether any societies in modern times can be considered to be true hunter-gatherer groups. Some scientists argue that no societies today dwell in isolation and that trade has existed between hunter-gatherers and neighboring societies for thousands of years. Others recognize the societal interaction but assert that the contact has done little to change the lifestyles of hunter-gatherers.

Despite varying opinions, one thing is clear: Until about 8,000 years ago, all people were foragers of wild foods. As recently as 3,000 years ago, the entire population of southern Africa depended on hunting game and gathering wild plants for their survival. Outsiders have given many names to the people in southern Africa who lived by hunting and gathering, including Bushmen, San...