Similar to nearly all areas in the world, ancient African communities were classified into diversified classes and groups. Traditionally speaking, social classes of Ancient Africa is divided into three basic principles specifically the elder hood, servitude and the rank or the person’s position in the community which is similar to the leader.
A provincial community which is comprised of adequately straightforward agricultural societies is popular in ancient Africa. In such communities, everyone lives identically and the differences and occupation and wealth have little to no significance at all. Alternatively, the ranking is primarily based on the idea of seniority which indicates that established groups and old people have more power compared to the new.
In other words, newcomers live nearby must maintain peace relations by acknowledging the ranks of those were the first. Usually, the first settled family becomes the leaders of the local councils while other families assume parts according to their respective abilities. It is, however, essential to note that some may obtain higher influence as a result of their strength, fertility, wisdom and courage.
Servitudes, on the other hand, are the ones who control society and third-class people such as the slaves and other servants. Ideally, they are known to have more rights and authority compared to the commoners. Only people from this structure have the chance to become the ruler of a particular community.
Even though they were considered as free members, servitudes were under the power of Emperors and Nobles and are prohibited to marry people that are not members of their own groups.
Other than the elderhood and the servitudes, the African social class also has a group known as the rank which is mainly made up of aristocrats who created hierarchies within the emperor’s courts.
While a significant amount of Africans have remained deeply loyal to their conventional social structure, modern Africa is currently dominated by Western groups and policies. At present, the elite class in Africa has become more diverse and larger with members serving as links between a global elite and African societies.
The Wolof system has three types of people which include the Geers, Jaams and Neno.
The iklan is made up of laborers, farmers, artisans and herders.
The Tuareg society is conventionally composed of a Hassane which is recognized as the warrior tribe of the community.
The Horons are considered to be the noblemen of the Mande who are skilled in agriculture, fishing and hunting wild animals.