Discuss the social organization of the Abagusii in the 19th century.
Answer:
-Family was the basic- social unit. Families claiming a common ancestry formed a clan.
- The institution of marriage respected and it was polygamous.
- The young boys and girls were circumcised as part of initiation rite and were considered adults who could marry.
- The boys joined age set that provided warriors who defended the clan.
- They were religious and believed in one god called “Engono” who controlled their destiny. He was worshipped through offerings and sacrifices.
- There existed witches and sorcerers who were hated because they were believed to use charms and evil spirit to make others suffer
- The Abagusii celebrated through song and dance mainly during childbirth and wedding.