Hi everyone, I trust you are doing great.
Today I shall be introducing you to the Hausa tribe. I have always admired the Hausa language, personally I think it's the sexiest language in the country. The Hausa language is actually the most widely spoken in Africa with over 41 million people speaking it as a first language. Although the Hausas have an overwhelming influence on Northern Nigeria, they are predominantly from the North-West.
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| Map of Hausa |
The Hausa people can trace their origins from around the 7th century to Daura and their ancestry to Bayajidda. There were originally 7 Hausa states Daura, Kano, Katsina, Zaria, Gobir, Rano and Biram. The states drew on each others strengths particularly with regards their skill sets and natural resources. Kano and Rano were the cloth and leather makers, Katsina and Daura were the Chiefs of the Market, Zaria which supplied labor was the Chief of Slaves, and Gobir was the Chief of War which protected the empire.
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| Daura Palace |
The Hausa architecture was one of the most beautiful of the 12th century, it comprised bright and colorful buildings with intricate engraving or elaborate symbols designed into the facade.
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| Sultan of Sokoto |
The Hausa's are predominantly Muslims by religion and regard the Sultan of Sokoto as their spiritual leader. The Hausa aristocracy have historically been an equestrian based culture, and this culture still remains till date. The Hausa Monarchs are known as Emirs.
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| Emir of Kano |
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| Hausa Baban Riga |
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| Hausa Zani |
The women wear wrappers called Zani, made with colorful atampa cloth and a matching blouse, head-tie and shawl. The Hausas were known historically for their indigo blue dressings and emblems as well as Arabian horses or Saharan camels.
In modern days it is very difficult to separate the Hausas from the Fulanis, but we shall be discussing this in my subsequent post.
