Among the Ibos of Nigeria: an account of the curious and interesting habits, customs and beliefs of a little known African people by one who has for many years lived amongst them on close and intimate terms

Basden, George Thomas

Book

Among the Ibos of Nigeria: an account of the curious and interesting habits, customs and beliefs of a little known African people by one who has for many years lived amongst them on close and intimate terms

Cass • London • Published In 1966 • Pages:

By: Basden, George Thomas.

Abstract
This is a record of the author's observations and experiences among the Igbo people during his initial visit to Nigeria in the period of 1900-1920. Although Basden was a keen observer of native customs, especially in regard to material culture, the extent of his actual observations of such things as warfare, human sacrifices, and cannibalism is not clear. It seems likely that much of these data came from native informants. The source touches on all aspects of Igbo ethnography, but is especially detailed on sex status, slavery, funeral rites, yam and palm cultivation, arts and crafts, warfare, religion (including human sacrifice), status achievement, the oracles, and the effects of missionization (last two chapters). (For a more detailed listing of contents, see Category 128, pp. 13-14.) As a whole, the source provides a good general background for more intensive studies on the Igbo.

Gender status

Burial practices and funerals

Mourning

Vegetable production

Arboriculture

Prayers and sacrifices

Slavery

Instigation of war

Warfare

Inter-community relations

Magicians and diviners

Judicial authority