The Baganda

""The Baganda: An Account Of Their Native Customs And Beliefs"" is a comprehensive study of the Baganda people, who are one of the largest ethnic groups in Uganda. Written by John Roscoe, a British colonial administrator and anthropologist who lived among the Baganda in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the book provides a detailed account of their social organization, cultural practices, and religious beliefs.Roscoe begins by describing the Baganda's political system, which was centered around the king (kabaka) and his court. He explains how the kabaka was believed to be a divine ruler, and how his power was balanced by a system of checks and balances within the court. Roscoe also discusses the Baganda's economic system, which was based on agriculture and trade, and their social structure, which was organized around clans and age-sets.The book goes on to explore the Baganda's religious beliefs, which were a complex mixture of traditional African religion and Christianity. Roscoe describes the Baganda's belief in a supreme being, as well as their worship of ancestral spirits and other supernatural beings. He also discusses the impact of Christian missionaries on the Baganda's religious practices, and how the Baganda adapted Christianity to fit their own cultural context.Throughout the book, Roscoe provides numerous examples of Baganda customs and traditions, such as their marriage and funeral practices, their music and dance, and their use of medicinal plants. He also includes extensive quotes from Baganda oral traditions, which provide a glimpse into their worldview and cultural values.Overall, ""The Baganda: An Account Of Their Native Customs And Beliefs"" is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in African anthropology, history, or culture. Roscoe's detailed and nuanced portrayal of the Baganda people provides a fascinating glimpse into a complex and dynamic society.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.