This study examines the transformation that took place in the central Negev (Israel) during the Late Roman and Early Byzantine periods by addressing questions such as: What do existing historical records and past archaeological research tell us about the transformation that took place in the Negev and in neighbouring regions during this period? What can the material finds from recent excavations in the area, for the purposes of this study at Mampsis, Oboda, and Mezad 'En Hazeva, provide to supplement that information? What factors contributed to the greatest population increase and permanent...