article

Social interaction and the management of Songhay socio-political change

Africa51 (3) • Published In 1981 • Pages: 765-780

By: Stoller, Paul.

Abstract
This book examines the transformation of Songhai social structure during the colonial period. With the end of slavery, the establishment of a colonial government, and the introduction of universal education, alternative paths to prestige and power for ethnic minorities and former slaves undermined traditional Songhai statuses. The expansion of trade and advent of a market economy during the colonial period provided non-Songhai merchants with more wealth and power. The author examines the informal institution of discussion groups—centered on Songhai nobles or non-Songhai merchants—and how they compete for prestige and political power.
Subjects
Mercantile business
Status, role, and prestige
Ethnic stratification
Classes
Slavery
External relations
culture
Songhai
HRAF PubDate
2016
Region
Africa
Sub Region
Western Africa
Document Type
article
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
4: Excellent Secondary Data
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Ian Skoggard; 2016
Field Date
1976-1977
Coverage Date
1898-1977
Coverage Place
Mehanna, Tera department, Tillabéri, Niger
Notes
Paul Stoller
Includes bibliographical references (p. 779-780)
LCCN
29010790
LCSH
Songhai (African people)