Yorùbá

Yorùbá are an ethnic group of southwestern and north-central Nigeria, as well as southern and central Benin. Together, these regions are known as Yorubaland. The Yorùbá constitute over 40 million people in total. The vast majority of this population is from Nigeria, where the Yorùbá make up 21% of the country's population, making them one of the largest ethnic groups in Africa. Yorùbá culture is traditionally animist, with a rich mythology, vibrant art, and a history that dates back centuries. Today, many Yorùbá people practice Christianity or Islam, influenced by historical trade routes and colonialism.

History

The history of the Yorùbá people is complex and steeped in mythology. According to Yorùbá legend, the deities Oduduwa and Obatala were sent by the supreme god Olorun to create the earth. Oduduwa is considered the progenitor of the Yorùbá kings. The historical city of Ile-Ife is regarded as the spiritual and cultural center of the Yorùbá people, where the arts flourished and traditional Yorùbá religion was practiced. Over centuries, the Yorùbá developed into a powerful and sophisticated society, known for its city-states, such as Oyo, Ijebu, and Egba, which were linked by trade and diplomacy.

Language

The Yorùbá language is part of the Niger-Congo family. It is a tonal language, with three different tones; high, mid, and low, which can change the meaning of a word. Yorùbá is widely spoken in Nigeria, Benin, and by communities in other parts of Africa, Europe, and the Americas.

Culture

Yorùbá culture is rich and diverse, encompassing traditional music, dance, art, and cuisine. The Yorùbá are known for their elaborate beadwork, weaving, and pottery. Traditional music involves the use of drums, such as the dùndún and bàtá, which are important in religious and social ceremonies. Yorùbá cuisine is varied, with dishes like amala and ewédú, made from yam flour and jute leaves, respectively.

Religion

Traditional Yorùbá religion centers around the worship of a pantheon of deities, known as Òrìṣà, who are intermediaries between humans and the supreme god, Olorun. Prominent Òrìṣà include Sango (god of thunder and lightning), Ogun (god of iron and war), and Yemoja (goddess of the river). The introduction of Islam and Christianity has led to religious diversity among the Yorùbá, with many practicing a syncretism of traditional beliefs and these world religions.

Economy

Historically, the Yorùbá were primarily agriculturalists, traders, and craftsmen. They were known for their expertise in ironworking, textile, and bead making. Today, many Yorùbá are engaged in various sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, and services in urban centers.

Political Structure

The Yorùbá political system traditionally consists of a network of city-states, each governed by a king or Oba, who is supported by a council of chiefs. This system allowed for a high degree of autonomy within each city-state, while maintaining a collective identity as Yorùbá people. The influence of colonial rule and the introduction of modern state systems have transformed the traditional political structure, though the Oba still plays a significant role in cultural and religious affairs.

Diaspora

The transatlantic slave trade led to the forced migration of many Yorùbá to the Americas, where they have had a profound impact on the cultures of countries like Brazil, Cuba, Trinidad, and Haiti. Yorùbá religious practices, language, and music have influenced the development of religions such as Candomblé, Santería, and Vodun in the Americas.