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The Igboigala Borderland: Religion and Social Control in Indigenous African Colonialism,Used
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This ethnohistorical survey of the northern Nsukka borderland examines particularly one method of African colonial control. When, in the late eighteenth century, the Igala conquered the indigenous Igbo, they gained and held social control through monopoly of certain religious positions. However, despite conscious effort to maintain Igala religious lineages, these gradually became Igbonized. In delineating this religioussocial control, Professor Shelton describes extensively border conditions and the nature of Igbo life in the Nsukka area. He dwells particularly on the Igbo religious framework which includes welldisposed, beneficent spirits and more capricious and potentially more hostile outside spirits called alusi. The invading Igala installed their own men as priests, or attama, to the dangerous alusi, thereby becoming the sole mediators between these spirits and the Igbo. Since the attama also controlled most divination, which is employed to explain any unclear or mysterious phenomenon, there was no essential social activity the Igala attama could not influence.Professor Shelton shows how the Igbo attempted to circumvent the alusi worship by emphasizing various aspects of familial worship (of the ancestors, the High God, Earth), but how this attempt failed because these essentially friendly beings did not require propitiation while it was demanded by the alusi. On the other hand, although the Igala attempted to keep the attama lineages Igala, these families gradually formed so many connections with Igbo families that they eventually Igbonized even though they retained a nominal Igala identification.Professor Shelton's description of religious activity in the borderland is clear and original. He makes extensive use of material gathered in the field, particularly oral transmissions, and pays marked attention to linguistic clues for information. In extended descriptions of religious ceremonies, Professor Shelton provides evidence that the social control maneuvers of both the Igala and the Igbo are revealed in the content of their prayers.An appendix gives important material concerning the origin of these borderland people and a glossary of Igbo terms provides diacritical marks to aid pronunciation of these words which have little standard orthography. The work is also supplemented with maps, charts, and photographs.
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- Q: What is the page count of the book? A: The book has two hundred seventy-four pages. This length allows for a detailed exploration of the subject matter.
- Q: What are the dimensions of this book? A: The book measures five point nine eight inches in length, zero point nine eight inches in width, and nine point zero two inches in height. These dimensions make it easy to handle and store.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: This book features a hardcover binding. This type of binding provides durability and a professional appearance.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author is Austin J. Shelton. He provides a thorough examination of the religious and social dynamics in the Igbo-Igala borderland.
- Q: What genre does this book belong to? A: The book falls under the category of African American Studies. It offers an insightful perspective on colonialism in Africa.
- Q: How can I use this book for research? A: You can use this book as a primary source for studies in colonial history and religious practices. Its extensive research and insights can support academic essays.
- Q: Is this book suitable for high school students? A: Yes, this book is suitable for high school students studying African history or colonialism. It provides accessible yet scholarly content.
- Q: Can this book be used for a college-level course? A: Yes, it is appropriate for college-level courses in African Studies, History, or Religious Studies. The depth of research supports higher academic inquiry.
- Q: Are there any illustrations or maps in the book? A: Yes, the book includes maps, charts, and photographs. These visuals enhance the understanding of the historical context discussed.
- Q: How should I store this hardcover book? A: Store the book upright on a shelf to maintain its shape. Avoid placing heavy items on top to prevent damage.
- Q: What is the best way to keep this book in good condition? A: Keep the book away from direct sunlight and moisture. Regularly dust it to keep the cover and pages clean.
- Q: Is there a glossary included in the book? A: Yes, the book includes a glossary of Igbo terms. This glossary aids in understanding and pronunciation.
- Q: What should I do if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, contact the seller for a return or exchange. Most sellers have policies for damaged goods.
- Q: Is there a warranty for this book? A: Typically, books do not come with a warranty. However, check the seller's return policy for any guarantees.
- Q: How can I find more books like this? A: You can look for similar titles in the African American Studies category or check recommendations from the publisher. Library databases might also help.