This week I am writing about Quechua people. Quechua is a culture existing in many South American countries. The most Quechuan people live in Chile and their population is estimated to be over 5 million. Originaly, they lived in Andes, high above the sea level. There, in 15th century, they took an important role in Andean development of agriculture. Unfortunately, like many native americans most of them died out after Europeans had came. Until 19th century, under spanish reign, Quechua culture got change so much, that many say you almost can't call them Quechuan anymore. This day they live farming lifes in high Andes. They practise their traditional fibre handicrafts, spinning woll and weaving fabrics for both domestic use and sale to outsiders. It is worth to mention that their religion is a mix-up of Roman Catholicism and native folk beliefs.
Masai
The Maasai are an indigenous ethnic group in Africa of semi-nomadic people settled in Kenya and northern Tanzania. Due to their distinct traditions, customs and dress and their residence near the many national game parks of East Africa, the Maasai are among the foremost African ethnic groups. The masai speak the Maa language which is derived from Nilo-Saharan. They also speak Swahili and English. Estimated population of Masai is 900 000 people. Masai culture is stricly connected to nature. They are monotheistic, they believe in god named Engai or Enkai. raditional Maasai people's lifestyle concentrates on their cattle which make up the primary source of food. Amongst the Maasai and several other African ethnic groups, the measure of a man's wealth is in terms of children and cattle. So the more the better. Traditionally, the Maasai music comprises of rhythms rendered by a chorus of vocalists singin harmonies, all the while the olaranyani (song leader) sings the melody.
I met quite a few Quechuans in Peru. Some of them had higher education (a guide and a few teachers) and were very proud of their heritage. Also, their language is still alive and well.
OdpowiedzUsuńThey must be very proud of their history
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