The Kpelle of Liberia
essay 1965 Gibbs, James L.

KpelleAfrica > Western Africa
This article presents an excellent culture summary of the Liberian Kpelle, particularly those living in Panta Chiefdom. The Kpelle of Guinea, known as the Guerzé, are not discussed. Given special emphasis in the source are: economy, the community and...

Marital instability among the Kpelle
article 1963 Gibbs, James L.

KpelleAfrica > Western Africa
This study, based on 17 month's field work among the Kpelle of Central Liberia in 1957-1958, attempts to present a theoretical basis for an understanding of the apparent marital instability among these people. After a brief review of the Gluckman-Lea...

Poro values and courtroom procedures in a Kpelle chiefdom
article 1962 Gibbs, James L.

KpelleAfrica > Western Africa
The document analyzes the relationship between Kpelle formal judicial procedures and results and one of Kpelle society's basic values: strong and unchallenged respect for authority. The role of the Poro, a tribal secret fraternity, in instilling and ...

The Kpelle moot
article 1963 Gibbs, James L.

KpelleAfrica > Western Africa
This document offers a description and analysis of the Kpelle moot 'court', or 'house palaver', as an institution for the informal settlement of disputes between Kpelle. Differing from more formal procedures of conflict resolution, the author argues ...