The Maasai Tribe of East Africa

Overview

• The Maasai are a Nilotic semi-nomadic ethnic group in Kenya and Tanzania.
• Known for preserving traditional ways and resisting Western modernization.
• Distinctive for their dress and beautiful jewelry.

Origins and Migration

• Believed to have migrated from northwestern Kenya, near Lake Turkana, in the 15th century.
• Currently settled in southern Kenya and northern Tanzania.
• Encountered and conquered other tribes during migration; some assimilated into the Maasai culture.
• Present population: approximately 2 million across Kenya and Tanzania.

Culture and Society

• Social Structure: Governed mainly by older men who hold significant authority over society.
• Cattle: Highly valued; used for dowries and resolving disputes.

Religion

• Worship a supreme god named Lybon.
• Lybon is believed to control rain, healing, and prophecy.
• Acts as the spiritual leader in Maasai religion.

Diet

• Reliant on cattle products like milk and raw blood (taken directly from a cow’s vein).
• Blood and meat are considered nutritious and central to their diet.

Body Modifications

• Known for artistic body modifications:
  • Elongation of ear lobes, lips, and sometimes tongues.
  • Done at a young age using tools like thorns, twigs, and stones.

Jewelry

• Renowned for artistic jewelry, popular among tourists in Kenya and Tanzania.

Conclusion

• The Maasai maintain a distinct cultural identity while adapting to modern challenges.
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