South African Cultures
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Traditional Zulu Dance |
South Africa is one of the most diverse countries on the planet. South Africa is home to eleven different official languages. A multitude of different cultures call this country home, the more prominent cultures that live in South Africa are Khoikhoi, San, Zulu, Ndebele, Xhosa, and Sotho. These cultures all function within one county and help South Africa become the diverse place it is today.
Language Barriers
Being such a diverse country with people from all around the globe, language is a major factor throughout the country. With eleven different official languages that are spoken all throughout the different cities and providence throughout the country communication can be an issue. To someone from outside the country, like someone from the US communication could be very difficult. But a majority of South Africans are bilingual. According to the World Atlas, "The language spoken by the majority of the people, especially native South Africans is Zulu which is spoken by 23% of the population followed by Xhosa and Afrikaans at 16% and 14% respectively." Some of the other major language spoken in the country are English, German, and Dutch.
Traditional Ndebele tribal women |
The different major cultural groups in Africa all share different traditions that are unique to themselves. The Khoikhoi and San people are still a nomadic people and are invaluable to the land and people around them. They maintain land that they travel on, their skills are also very helpful in catching poachers around the country. The Zulu's are most known for their tribal and spiritual nature. The Ndebele are most known for the art that the women create featuring unique bead work and geometric design. The Xhosa utilize a complex system of clothing to set the social hierarchy that shows marital, social, and political status. The Sotho people are organized into villages by age which also determines their status in the community. All of these cultures are unique in their own ways, but together the help define South Africa.
Sources:
Images:
http://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/120416041832-zulu-ceremony-story-top.jpg
http://www.krugerpark.co.za/images/Ndebele-Woman-adornment-590.jpg
Informational:
Misachi, John. “South African Culture, Customs, and Traditions.” WorldAtlas, 21 Sept. 2018, www.worldatlas.com/articles/south-african-culture-customs-and-traditions.html.
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