Somali people

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Ethnic group native to the Horn of Africa

The Somali people (Template:Lang-so) are an ethnic group native to the Horn of Africa, primarily inhabiting Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Djibouti. They speak the Somali language, which is part of the Cushitic branch of the Afroasiatic family. The majority of Somalis are Sunni Muslims.

History

The history of the Somali people dates back to antiquity. They are believed to be descendants of the ancient Cushitic peoples who inhabited the region. The Land of Punt, an ancient kingdom mentioned in Egyptian texts, is thought to have been located in present-day Somalia.

During the medieval period, several powerful Somali empires and sultanates, such as the Ajuran Sultanate, the Adal Sultanate, and the Warsangali Sultanate, dominated the region. These states played a significant role in the trade networks of the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea.

Culture

Somali culture is rich and diverse, with a strong emphasis on oral tradition. Poetry is a central part of Somali culture, with poets held in high regard. The traditional Somali attire includes the macawis for men and the guntiino for women.

Clan System

The Somali people are traditionally organized into clans and sub-clans. The major clans include the Darod, Dir, Hawiye, and Isaaq. Each clan has its own sub-clans and lineages, which play a crucial role in social and political organization.

Cuisine

Somali cuisine is a blend of various influences, including Middle Eastern, Indian, and Italian. Common dishes include sambusa, bariis, and canjeero.

Language

The Somali language is the mother tongue of the Somali people. It is written in the Latin alphabet and has several dialects, including Northern Somali, Benadir, and Maay. Somali is an official language in Somalia and a recognized minority language in Ethiopia and Kenya.

Religion

Islam is the predominant religion among the Somali people. The majority adhere to the Sunni branch of Islam, specifically the Shafi'i school of jurisprudence. Religious practices and beliefs are deeply integrated into daily life and cultural practices.

Diaspora

The Somali diaspora is widespread, with significant communities in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Sweden, and the United Arab Emirates. These communities maintain strong ties to their homeland and contribute to the global Somali culture.

Related Pages

• Somalia
• Somali language
• Horn of Africa
• Ajuran Sultanate
• Adal Sultanate
• Warsangali Sultanate
• Cushitic languages
• Sunni Islam