The Structural Articulation of Generations in Africa

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Periodical article

Title:	The Structural Articulation of Generations in Africa
Author:	Ruel, Malcolm J.
Year:	2002
Periodical:	Cahiers d'études africaines
Volume:	42
Issue:	165
Pages:	51-81
Language:	English
Geographic terms:	East Africa West Africa Southern Africa
Subjects:	generations Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups) History and Exploration
External link:	http://etudesafricaines.revues.org/135
Abstract:	This article highlights a contrast between West African Niger-Congo and East and Southern African Bantu societies. Amongst the latter, adjacent generations are sharply distinguished and alternate generations merged, whereas among the Niger-Congo peoples it is rather adjacent generations that are merged (a fact Radcliffe-Brown ignored). The difference is integral to the social structures of the two regions, between which, however, some continuity can be traced through the proces of the 'Bantu expansion'. An explanation for the heightened awareness of generational differences is sought firstly in the effects of matrilineal kinship cross-cutting patrifilial residence and secondly in the axial emergence of the people identified by C. Ehret as 'Mashariki' in the Great Lakes area. Bibliogr., notes, ref., sum. in English and French.