The Tuareg People of North Africa

Study Notes

Inhabit the Saharan regions of North Africa, specifically in Niger, Mali, Libya, Algeria, and Burkina Faso.
Also known as "abandoned by God" in Arabic, but they call themselves "Imohag" meaning "free men".

The true origin of the Tuareg is unknown, but they are reputed to be of Berber descent.
Speak Tamachek, a language with its own script called Tifinagh, which has ancient Libyan roots.
Estimated population is between 300,000 and 1 million.

Played a primary role in trans-Saharan trade until the mid-20th century with camel caravans.
There were five principal trade routes that extended across the Sahara from the northern Mediterranean coast to the great cities on the southern edge.
Traded in luxury items such as salt, saffron, dates, and jewelry due to the limited space in caravans.

Men wear an indigo-colored veil, known as the "Blue Men of the Sahara" or "Men of the Veil", starting from the age of 25.
The reason for wearing the veil is unclear, with some attributing it to practicality or protection from bad spirits.
Practice traditional dances such as the Tam Tam, where men on camel circle the women while playing drums and chanting.
Nomadic huts are easily constructed using weaved matting and traditional fabrics on a timber frame.

Most Tuareg practice some degree of Islam, but they are not considered Arabic and have preserved many pre-Islamic traditions.
Women have a great deal of freedom and participate in family and tribal decisions.
Descent and inheritance are through the maternal line.
Women have the power to choose partners before marriage and retain their power after marriage.
Women own the home and animals, and often initiate divorce, keeping the animals, tent, and children.

In recent years, the Tuareg have aligned themselves with extremist Islamist groups to further their cause for independence.
Now face threats from ISIS in Libya and Boko Haram in Mali, Niger, and northern Nigeria.

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