Tribes

Tribes Hey Mumbai University SYBA IDOL students!  Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of Human Geography ,  continue exploring the chapter – “Tribes“. Tribes are unique communities with distinct cultural, social, and economic practices. Understanding tribes helps us appreciate the diversity of human societies and the various ways people live around the world. First, we will define what tribes are. Tribes are groups of people who live together, often in isolated areas, and share common ancestry, language, culture, and traditions. Next, we will look at the general features of tribes. This includes their social structures, ways of living, economic activities, and how they interact with their environment. We will then write short notes on three specific tribes: Eskimo: Indigenous people living in the Arctic regions, known for their unique adaptations to the cold environment. Bedouin: Nomadic tribes from the desert regions of the Middle East, known for their distinctive way of life and strong cultural traditions. Masai: Indigenous people from East Africa, particularly Kenya and Tanzania, known for their cattle-herding and vibrant cultural practices. Finally, we will discuss the position of women in Bedouin society. This will help us understand gender roles and how cultural practices influence the status and responsibilities of women within these communities. By the end of this lesson, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of tribes, their characteristics, and the unique aspects of the Eskimo, Bedouin, and Masai tribes. So, SYBA IDOL Mumbai University students, get ready to unwrap the mysteries of “Tribes” with customized IDOL notes  just for you. Let’s jump into this exploration together. True and false:- a. The tribes cannot compete with modern organisations, such as state – Trueb. The Ainu tribes are the racial stock of southern Nigeria – Falsec. Basseri is a native tribe of Iran – Trued. Eskimos are among the oldest population of Africa whose average height is unusually short – False e. Eskimo groups have uniformity in languages, physical type and culture in spite of their regional differences – True Fill in the blanks :- Cultivation of plants are the mainstay of tribal groups . Barter and redistribution of surplus products are one of the chief characteristics of tribal community . Dani are tribal inhabitants of New Guinea. The Negros of Central and Southern Africa are known as Bantu. The Eskimos have adapted themselves to an extremely cold and ice-covered environment in the Arctic region . Multiple choice question:- a) Eskimo people hunted seals withi. harpoonsii. bow and arrowiii. spears ANS- i. harpoons b) The highest point of Sami’s land isi. Kebnekajse at 2121 metresii. Mt. Everest 8848 metresiii. Ladakh ANS- i. Kebnekajse at 2121 metres c) According to their own oral history the Masai originated from thei. Lower Ganga valleyii. Upper Brahmaputra valleyiii. lower Nile valley ANS- i. Lower Ganga valley d) Masai can be recognised by the special red cloth they wear known asi. Skirtii. Shukaiii. Shorts ANS- ii. Shuka Short answer question:- Question 1:- Define tribes A tribe can be defined as an aggregate of people linked together by means of social ties, a common language, and the recognition of a common cultural heritage. Tribes are typically characterized by their unique customs, beliefs, and social structures, and they often have a low level of technological development and productivity per capita. The term “tribe” refers to a cultural or social group rather than a biological or racial one, and tribal communities often engage in activities such as plant cultivation, animal domestication, and barter for the exchange of goods Question 2 :- What are the general features of tribes?  Introduction:      Tribes are unique communities with distinct characteristics that set them apart from other groups in society. Understanding these features helps in appreciating the diversity and richness of human cultures. Tribes are often characterized by their social ties, common language, cultural heritage, and economic activities. This answer will explore the general features of tribes in detail.    1.  Social Ties Definition: Tribes consist of groups of people who are closely linked by social relationships. Example: These connections are often through extended family ties, making family a central part of tribal life.    2. Common Language Definition: Members of a tribe usually share a common language. Example: This shared language is a key aspect of their cultural identity and helps in maintaining unity within the tribe.    3. Cultural Heritage Definition: Tribes maintain a common cultural heritage, which includes customs, beliefs, rituals, and traditions. Example: This cultural heritage is passed down through generations and is central to the tribe’s identity.    4. Low Technological Development Definition: Most tribal communities have a low level of technological advancement. Example: This affects their productivity and the types of economic activities they engage in, such as traditional farming or hunting and gathering.    5. Economic Activities Definition: The primary economic activities of tribes often include the cultivation of plants and animal domestication. Example: Many tribes also engage in hunting and gathering to meet their food needs.    6. Semi-Nomadic Lifestyle Definition: Some tribes lead a semi-nomadic lifestyle, moving periodically in search of resources. Example: This movement can be influenced by the seasons or the availability of food and water.    7. Barter System Definition: Tribes typically rely on barter and the redistribution of surplus products as their main means of economic exchange. Example: Goods and services are exchanged without using money, promoting a system of mutual support within the tribe.     8. Isolation Definition: Many tribes are isolated from modern political organizations and may inhabit less hospitable environments. Example: This isolation can widen the cultural and technological gaps between tribes and the rest of the population.  Conclusion:         Tribes are unique communities with distinct social ties, common language, cultural heritage, and specific economic activities. Their low technological development, semi-nomadic lifestyle, barter system, and isolation further define their way of life. Understanding these features is essential to appreciating the diversity and richness of human cultures. Tribes represent a vital part of human history and cultural heritage, contributing to the global mosaic of human societies. Question 3 :- State how is a woman’s position in the Bedouin society Introduction: