Cornrows

Cornrows

SMITH(1890) p211 JOHANNIS, KING OF ABYSSINIA

Reconstruction of the Lady of Brassempouy by Libor Balák, Czech Academy of Sciences, the Institute of Archaeology in Brno, The Center for Paleolithic and Paleoethnological Research

Female funerary statue (detail) (2nd cent. B.C.) at the National Archaeological Museum on 2 July 2018

Nuba woman Kau

Cornrows are a traditional style of hair braiding in which the hair is braided very close to the scalp, using an underhand, upward motion to produce a continuous, raised row. Cornrows are often formed in simple, straight lines, but they can also be fashioned in complicated geometric or curvilinear designs.

Origins and History

The origins of cornrows can be traced back to Africa, specifically to the regions inhabited by the Ethiopian and Sudanese peoples thousands of years ago. The style was not only a means for carrying out daily activities without hair interference but also served as a way to communicate social status, religion, kinship, and ethnicity. During the Atlantic slave trade, enslaved Africans brought the tradition of cornrowing to the Americas, where it became a practical way to manage hair during long periods of labor.

Cultural Significance

Cornrows hold significant cultural value within African American communities and other African diaspora communities around the world. They are a symbol of pride, heritage, and creativity. Despite their rich history, cornrows, like many other African hairstyles, have been subjected to cultural appropriation and discrimination. Schools and workplaces have often deemed them unprofessional, leading to controversies and debates about racial discrimination and identity.

Styling and Maintenance

Creating cornrows involves parting the hair into sections and braiding it tightly against the scalp. The process can be time-consuming, depending on the complexity of the design and the length of the hair. To maintain cornrows, it is essential to keep the scalp moisturized and to wear a silk or satin scarf at night to prevent frizz. Cornrows can last for several weeks with proper care.

Modern Adaptations

Today, cornrows have evolved beyond their traditional roots to become a versatile element of fashion and self-expression. They are embraced by people of all ages and ethnicities and have been popularized by celebrities in the music, sports, and film industries. Modern variations include adding extensions, beads, and other accessories to the braids, as well as experimenting with different sizes and patterns of cornrows.

Controversies

The popularity of cornrows outside African and African American communities has sparked discussions about cultural appropriation. Critics argue that when non-African individuals wear cornrows without understanding or respecting their cultural significance, it can be a form of cultural theft. These debates highlight the need for greater awareness and appreciation of the history and cultural importance of cornrows and other traditional African hairstyles.