A cultural history of the harari people (C.1875-1991)

Abstract

This thesis entitled “A Cultural History of the Harari People (C.1875-1991)”, attempts to explore the cultural history of the Harari people in Harar city. This was because the study conducted on the cultural history of the Harari people in the city of Harar was not enough. Harar is located in the Eastern part of Ethiopia 525Kilometres away from Addis Ababa. In the city, there is a historical wall known as the Jogol Gimb (Jogol wall) which was built in 1552.The Harari are the earlier people of the city of Harar, and they maintained a strong relationship with the neighboring people for many centuries. From ancient time up to 1887, Harar was ruled by 72 Emirs. Among these the most known Emirs were Emir Nur Mujahid (1552-1566) and Emir Abdullahi (1885-1887). The former was known for building Jogol Gimb for defensive purpose and the latter was known for his effort to defend Harar from Menelik‟s conquest though he was not successful. Based on information from informants, written documents, Harari cultural centre and Harari National Museum the thesis attempts to explore the main cultural practices of the Harari people (1875-1991).The Harari traditional houses (sar-gar and darbi-gar) were mostly constructed from wood, soil, grass and stones which contain different seats (nadabas). Basketry was the most known Harari cultural practice of women and mainly used for decorating their houses, as container and provided other services. The most known Harari traditional foods are hulbat (stew) and Ukat (Harari bread). Finally, the thesis has also explored other intangible cultural aspects of the Harari people like music, afocha, religious and traditional holidays celebrated in different times and places.During the past,it was difficult for Harari boys to marry.This was because boys were asked to prepare large amount of money and expensive jewelleries which was impossible to fulfill for the families with less income.This was a major obstacle for both boys and girls.Until recently, Harari boys had no right to select girls for marriage instead their parents choose girls for their sons. Nowadays this situation is completely changed.The Harari women have special dress which they worn for special occasions.This dress is black on one side and red on the other side.They worn the blach side for mourning and red side for wedding and other ceremonies.