Bambara People

Biography:

The Bambara or Bamana are a Mandé ethnic group native to much of West Africa, primarily southern Mali, Ghana, Guinea, Burkina Faso and Senegal. They have been associated with the historic Bambara Empire. Today, they make up the largest Mandé ethnic group in Mali, with 80% of the population speaking the Bambara language, regardless of ethnicity. The Bambara are known for their art, particularly their masks, which are used in ceremonies and rituals. The Ciwara crest mask is one of the most famous Bambara masks, representing the antelope spirit and symbolizing fertility, prosperity, and the power of nature. The Bambara people have a rich cultural heritage, with their own language, customs, and traditions. They are primarily farmers and herders, and their society is organized around kinship and age groups. The Bambara have a strong spiritual tradition, with animist and Islamic influences. Their art and culture have been shaped by their history and environment, and they continue to play an important role in West African society.