Question

In maasailand, as elsewhere in Africa, not all pastoralists were equally affected by the the changes in the colonial period. Justify it.

Answer 1

The availability of pastureland decreased drastically. This resulted in continuous intensive grazing of the remaining pasture. Unlike in the past, the lack of seasonal movement of pastoralists did not allow time for the natural restoration of vegetation growth. This created shortage of forage for animals and the animal stock deteriorated. Most of the cattle died due to shortage of fodder.

Answer 2

In Maasailand, as elsewhere in Africa, not all pastoralists were equally affected by the changes in the colonial period.

a. ​The Maasai society was divided into two social categories – elders and warriors. The elders formed the ruling group and the warriors were responsible for the protection of the tribe.The warriors were subjected to the authority of elders.

b. Colonial policies brought about changes in the social conditions and reshaped the relationships among the massai community members.

c. ​ The British appointed chiefs among the Massai's to administer their affairs who accumulated wealth.Many of them also became traders.

d. They had secured income which enabled them to face situations like war and droughts.They had both pastoral and non-pastoral income​.

e. In Massai land distinction occurred between the wealthy and poor pastoralist.

f. The wealthy made money by lending money to the poor pastoralist who needed cash. For poor, life was different and difficult, They had no resources to tide over worst time.They had to work in towns as wage labourers.

g. Thus, social condition and changes took place in the massai community with the new distinction between pastoralists.