# How Did Ancient African Hairstyles Convey Social Standing? ❉ Question

**Published:** 2025-06-05
**Author:** Roothea
**Categories:** Question

---

_
![Captured in monochrome, the child](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/portrait-of-a-child-with-beaded-braids-black-and-white-beauty.jpg)

## Roots

Consider the stories etched into each coil, each gentle curve of textured hair. Our strands, truly, are not merely conduits of personal adornment; they are living archives, whispering legacies across generations, holding the breath of ancient winds. For those of us whose lineage traces back to the vast, vibrant expanse of the African continent, hair has always been a profound language, a silent yet potent declaration of who we are, where we stand, and the very roots that nourish our being. This deep-seated connection to heritage, flowing from the scalp to the very ends, offers a rich lens through which to understand how [ancient African hairstyles](/area/ancient-african-hairstyles/) conveyed social standing. 

![This black and white image beautifully captures the essence of natural Afro hair, celebrating its texture and form through carefully crafted braids and a chic, modern aesthetic while reinforcing cultural pride, wellness, and the expressive artistry of Black hairstyles.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-black-and-white-portrait-of-woman-with-natural-afro-hair.jpg)

## What Constitutes Textured Hair from an Ancestral View?

The anatomical truth of [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/) lies in its elliptical follicle shape, a characteristic that gives rise to the unique coiling pattern we recognize so well. This inherent structure, however, has always been more than biology; in ancestral African societies, it was the very canvas upon which identity was painted. The varying densities, curl patterns, and resilience of different hair types across the continent were observed, understood, and celebrated as inherent aspects of diverse human expression. Ancient peoples, though without the modern scientific terminology, possessed an intuitive grasp of hair’s elemental biology, recognizing distinct characteristics that influenced styling possibilities and, consequently, the social meanings attached to them. 

The concept of hair classification, while often debated in contemporary spaces, finds echoes in historical practices. Clans and communities, through generations of observation and tradition, developed their own ways of distinguishing hair types, often associating them with specific familial lines or geographical origins. These distinctions, organic and lived, contrasted sharply with later, external categorizations that would seek to diminish or marginalize. 

- **Hair Follicle Shape** ❉ The distinct elliptical or oval cross-section of the hair follicle, differing from the round follicle of straight hair, contributes to the spiraling or coiling pattern of textured hair.

- **Cuticle Layer Structure** ❉ The cuticle scales on textured hair tend to be more raised, creating opportunities for moisture loss and influencing texture.

- **Melanin Distribution** ❉ The specific distribution of melanin within the hair shaft gives rise to the diverse spectrum of hair colors found in African diasporic hair.

> Hair, to ancient African communities, was a living textile, woven with cultural meanings and social narratives.

![The monochromatic study showcases the beauty of braided hair elevated by silver artistry, emphasizing a harmonious convergence of heritage and innovative styling. This evokes a profound connection to ancestral hair traditions, interpreted through a lens of contemporary self-expression](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-portrait-of-woman-featuring-braided-hairstyles-and-futuristic.jpg)

## How Did Environment and Sustenance Shape Hair?

The environment, too, played a silent yet critical part in shaping hair health and, by extension, its potential for elaborate styling. In societies deeply connected to the rhythms of nature, the availability of nourishing plants, rich oils, and clean water directly impacted the vitality of hair. A strong, healthy head of hair, capable of holding complex styles, was often an indirect sign of a community’s wellbeing and its access to resources. Consider the shea tree, a source of profound nourishment for skin and hair across West Africa.

Its fruit, a gift from the earth, yielded the rich shea butter, a cornerstone of traditional hair care practices. The health of the hair, therefore, linked directly to the land’s bounty, a visible indicator of prosperity or struggle. These factors, while not direct statements of social standing, certainly laid the groundwork for the elaborate expressions of status that hairstyles allowed.

![In this evocative monochrome portrait, the artful arrangement of coils against the model’s skin celebrates the heritage of expressive Black hairstyles. The image highlights textured hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-young-woman-with-sculpted-coil-hair.jpg)

![Gathered in community, women meticulously braid, preserving ancestral heritage through the creation of protective hairstyles that honor textured hair traditions, enhanced by nourishing Jojoba and Shea butter hair products, a symbol of collective care and wellness.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/community-braiding-session-group-of-black-women-creating-protective-hairstyles.jpg)

## Ritual

The hands that braided, twisted, and adorned hair in ancient Africa were not merely skilled; they were performing rituals, inscribing meaning with every movement. These were not casual acts but deliberate, often sacred practices that transformed the raw material of hair into potent symbols of social standing, age, marital status, and even spiritual connection. The very act of styling became a communal ceremony, a tender thread binding individuals to their collective heritage. 

![Hands gently caressing textured coils, she embodies self-reflection, a quiet moment honoring ancestral heritage and nurturing holistic well-being. The interplay of light and shadow highlights the beauty of natural hair, emphasizing a spiritual connection through mindful care practices](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-with-closed-eyes-touching-coiled-hair-in-black-and-white.jpg)

## How Did Styling Techniques Convey Social Identity?

Beyond simple aesthetics, the complexity, specific patterns, and the very presence of certain hairstyles spoke volumes. A woman’s intricate coiffure among the **Yoruba** people of West Africa, for instance, could immediately signify her marital status, her lineage, or her readiness for a particular ceremony. Braids, a foundational technique, were not uniform. The number of braids, their direction, the tightness of their execution, and how they were arranged on the head often carried specific, recognized messages within a community.

In some instances, a specific braid pattern might only be worn by a newlywed, while a different style might denote a widow or a revered elder. These were visual cues, a shared language that transcended spoken words.

The crafting of these styles often involved specialized tools, many of them born from the earth itself. Combs carved from wood or bone, needles fashioned from thorns, and even rudimentary braiding tools crafted from dried plant fibers were not just functional items; they were extensions of the hands, embodying ancestral knowledge. The preservation of these tools, or the oral traditions surrounding their creation and use, speaks to their deep significance in the overall practice of hair care and styling as a means of social communication. 

> Ancient African hairstyles were visual pronouncements, silently communicating layers of social truth within communities.

![This striking portrait celebrates the beauty and versatility of Black hair, with intricately styled braids showcasing a fusion of protective coils and free-flowing spirals. It](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-woman-braided-hairstyles-featuring-protective-coils-and.jpg)

## The Ancestral Roots of Protective Styling

Many of the protective styles celebrated today find their origins in these ancient practices. Styles like cornrows, box braids, and various forms of twists served a dual purpose: they preserved the health of the hair in diverse climates, reducing tangling and breakage, and they simultaneously offered a versatile canvas for social expression. A warrior might wear tightly woven braids that minimized interference during battle, a practical choice that also conveyed discipline and readiness.

A chief’s wife might wear an elaborate coiffure adorned with beads or shells, a testament to her family’s wealth and prestige, carefully constructed to last for days or weeks. These styles were not fleeting trends; they were durable expressions of identity and position.

Consider the **Fulani** braids, originating with the Fulani people of the Sahel region. Their distinctive style often incorporates a central braid that hangs forward over the forehead, accompanied by braids that curve around the ears. This specific style, often adorned with [cowrie shells](/area/cowrie-shells/) or amber beads, could denote a woman’s age, her marital status, or her [social standing](/area/social-standing/) within the community (Akbar, 2017). The choice of adornments was particularly crucial; cowrie shells, for instance, once served as currency and held spiritual significance, their presence on hair indicating prosperity or connection to the divine. 

- **Cornrows** ❉ Intricate, close-to-the-scalp braids, often signifying tribal affiliation, age, or social role.

- **Locs** ❉ Matured, naturally matted hair strands, revered in many cultures as symbols of spiritual devotion, wisdom, or a connection to nature.

- **Headwraps** ❉ While not always hairstyles themselves, they covered or enhanced elaborate styles, often signifying modesty, mourning, or high status, particularly when made of fine fabrics.

![The evocative black and white portrait captures the essence of cultural pride, blending henna artistry, a traditional hijab, and healthy low porosity high-density hair, symbolizing ancestral heritage and self-expression, resonating with a narrative of identity through art and spiritual wellness.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-in-hijab-with-henna-design-and-traditional-black-hair-updo.jpg)

![Radiating innocence, the child’s hairstyle presents a contemporary take on age-old black hair traditions, showcasing distinctive coil patterns. This image encourages thoughtful reflection on textured hair narratives, promoting acceptance, appreciation, and inclusive representation](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/child-portrait-radiating-warmth-curly-top-bun-hairstyle-textured-hair-beauty.jpg)

## Relay

The visual vocabulary of ancient [African hairstyles](/area/african-hairstyles/) did not merely exist; it was actively relayed, transmitted, and understood as a complex system of communication. These were not static forms but dynamic expressions, adapting to changes in societal structure, political power, and spiritual beliefs. The relay of meaning occurred through observation, communal practice, and the deeply ingrained understanding of one’s place within the collective. 

![Braided formations and coin ornamentation, captured in monochrome, reflect a legacy of self-expression. Cultural pride resonates through the detailed hair work, embodying wellness through ancestral hairstyles](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-woman-adorned-with-braids-and-coin-headdress.jpg)

## What Were the Societal Roles Reflected in Hairstyles?

Hair, in its varied forms, functioned as a living resume. A young woman’s carefully styled hair might declare her eligibility for marriage, her passage into womanhood, or her family’s standing. Among the **Maasai** people, for instance, young warriors (Morans) often sported distinctive long, ochre-dyed braids, a symbol of their strength, virility, and transitional status (Spring, 2005). These styles were carefully maintained, a visible commitment to their role within the community. 

Conversely, older men and women might adopt simpler, more reserved styles, signifying wisdom, gravitas, and a shift away from youthful display towards revered elder status. Spiritual leaders, diviners, and healers often wore styles that set them apart, perhaps dreadlocks or particular coiffures that were believed to facilitate connection with ancestral spirits or divine powers. These were not merely personal choices; they were understood societal markers, agreed upon within the collective. 

> Beyond decoration, hair served as a living infographic, detailing an individual’s place within the social fabric.

![Captured in monochrome, the woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-young-woman-with-coiled-textured-hair-style.jpg)

## Hair as an Indicator of Wealth and Lineage

The sheer complexity and maintenance of a hairstyle could be a testament to a person’s wealth or status. Elaborate styles often required hours, even days, to create, a luxury only afforded by those who had the time, or the means to pay others for their labor. The inclusion of valuable adornments further amplified this message. Gold, cowrie shells, ivory, and rare beads were not only decorative but often held significant material value.

The presence of such items woven into hair was a clear display of prosperity, indicating a family’s access to resources or their success in trade. For example, among some West African groups, the weight and preciousness of gold ornaments woven into elaborate updos directly correlated with the wearer’s economic and political power.

Furthermore, hairstyles could signify lineage or royal affiliation. Certain styles or specific symbols incorporated into them might be reserved solely for members of the ruling family or those of noble birth, thereby reinforcing hierarchies. A study on ancient Egyptian depictions, for example, reveals distinct wig styles and adornments for pharaohs and nobility, clearly distinguishing them from commoners (Robins, 2000). These visual differentiators were not just about beauty; they were about order, power, and the assertion of dynastic claim. 

![This striking black and white image captures the essence of natural hair texture, enhanced by the bold undercut design and the subject](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-portrait-of-woman-with-textured-hair-and-undercut-design.jpg)

![This evocative portrait captures a woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-in-hijab-with-henna-hands-spiritual-portrait-black-and-white.jpg)

## Reflection

The wisdom held within each curl, each strand of textured hair, continues to echo through time. As we stand today, tracing the heritage of our hair practices, we connect to a lineage of artistry, communication, and resilience that spans millennia. The [ancient African](/area/ancient-african/) traditions of conveying social standing through hairstyles were not ephemeral fads; they were deeply embedded cultural systems, reflecting worldviews where appearance and collective identity were inextricably linked. 

Our journey into these ancestral practices reveals a truth that holds power in the contemporary moment: our hair is a living legacy. It reminds us that care is not just about product application, but about honoring a continuum of wisdom. The very act of caring for our textured hair, of understanding its unique biology, and of styling it with intention, becomes a tender act of remembrance, a personal connection to those who came before us. It is a way of reaffirming our roots, our beauty, and our inherent value, a silent yet potent declaration that the narratives woven into our strands continue, vibrant and unbound. 

![This monochrome photograph celebrates the artistry of African-inspired braiding techniques, highlighting the intricate detail and cultural significance of textured hairstyles. The woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-portrait-of-black-woman-featuring-intricate-braided-hairstyle.jpg)

![The monochrome portrait explores the beauty of diverse textured hair forms and features of melanin rich complexions. This exploration is a celebration of natural hairstyles that represent cultural heritage, self expression, and serves as a focal point for holistic well being and identity](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-black-and-white-portrait-of-woman-with-short-afro-hairstyle.jpg)

## References

- Akbar, A. (2017). <i>The Cultural Significance of Hair in African Societies._ University of Ghana Press.

- Spring, J. (2005). _African Hairstyles: A Cultural History._ Indiana University Press.

- Robins, G. (2000). _The Art of Ancient Egypt._ Harvard University Press.

- Eicher, J. B. & Erekosima, T. V. (1995). _African Dress and Textiles._ Michigan State University Press.

- Okeke-Agulu, C. (2009). _Hair in African Art and Culture._ Museum for African Art.

- Drewal, H. J. & Pemberton, J. (1989). _Yoruba: Nine Centuries of African Art and Thought._ The Center for African Art.

- Thompson, R. F. (1983). _Flash of the Spirit: African and Afro-American Art and Philosophy._ Random House.

## Glossary

### [Black Hair Standing](https://roothea.co/area/black-hair-standing/)

Meaning ❉ Black Hair Standing describes the distinct orientation of coily and kinky hair patterns, where strands naturally rise from the scalp, exhibiting an inherent lift rather than lying flat.

### [African Diaspora Hairstyles](https://roothea.co/area/african-diaspora-hairstyles/)

Meaning ❉ African Diaspora Hairstyles signify a continuum of styling traditions originating from or deeply influenced by African peoples dispersed globally, holding deep significance for textured hair care.

### [African Bridal Hairstyles](https://roothea.co/area/african-bridal-hairstyles/)

Meaning ❉ African Bridal Hairstyles describe a range of culturally resonant coiffures styled for individuals of African descent on their wedding day, extending beyond simple presentation.

### [Cultural Standing](https://roothea.co/area/cultural-standing/)

Meaning ❉ Cultural Standing, within the gentle world of textured hair, gracefully outlines the established regard and societal position of Black and mixed-race hair.

### [African Social Organization](https://roothea.co/area/african-social-organization/)

Meaning ❉ African Social Organization, within the gentle sphere of textured hair understanding, refers to the inherent, interconnected structures and shared wisdom that have long guided the care and presentation of Black and mixed-race hair.

### [Social Standing](https://roothea.co/area/social-standing/)

Meaning ❉ Social Standing, in the context of textured hair, refers to the perception and personal confidence gained through understanding and managing one's hair.

### [African Adornment](https://roothea.co/area/african-adornment/)

Meaning ❉ African Adornment, within the textured hair context, speaks to a purposeful practice far exceeding simple decoration.

### [Ancient Hairstyles](https://roothea.co/area/ancient-hairstyles/)

Meaning ❉ Ancient Hairstyles, in the gentle lens of textured hair understanding, signify the historically rich array of hair arrangements and meticulous care practices developed by civilizations past, particularly revealing the intrinsic nature of coils, curls, and kinks.

### [Textured Hair](https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair/)

Meaning ❉ Textured hair describes the natural hair structure characterized by its unique curl patterns, ranging from expansive waves to closely wound coils, a common trait across individuals of Black and mixed heritage.

### [African Royal Hairstyles](https://roothea.co/area/african-royal-hairstyles/)

Meaning ❉ African Royal Hairstyles denote the distinguished hair constructions, historically gracing individuals of elevated standing across diverse African civilizations.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [In What Ways Did Pre-Colonial Hairstyles Symbolize Identity and Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-did-pre-colonial-hairstyles-symbolize-identity-and-heritage/)
![Radiating innocence, the child’s hairstyle presents a contemporary take on age-old black hair traditions, showcasing distinctive coil patterns. This image encourages thoughtful reflection on textured hair narratives, promoting acceptance, appreciation, and inclusive representation.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/child-portrait-radiating-warmth-curly-top-bun-hairstyle-textured-hair-beauty.jpg)

### [In What Ways Did Hairstyles Become a Form of Silent Communication for Enslaved Communities?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-did-hairstyles-become-a-form-of-silent-communication-for-enslaved-communities/)
![This striking black and white portrait celebrates natural hair expression through intricate cornrow designs styled into tight coils. The image echoes historical braiding traditions, elevated by contemporary styling and sharp makeup, merging ancestral artistry with modern aesthetics and showcasing the beauty and versatility of Black hair traditions.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-cornrows-and-defined-edges-portrait-showing-natural-hair-artistry.jpg)

### [How Do Braids Convey Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/how-do-braids-convey-heritage/)
![The somber black and white tones elevate this arresting portrait of an elder adorned with traditional braids and woven headwear, a poignant reminder of cultural resilience passed down through generations, emphasizing the importance of honoring textured hair](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/resilient-elder-with-traditional-african-braids-and-woven-headdress-in-black.jpg)

### [What Historical Meaning Did Textured Hair Styles Convey?](https://roothea.co/question/what-historical-meaning-did-textured-hair-styles-convey/)
![The image captures a moment of contemplation by the ocean, showcasing the beauty of afro coiled hair texture in striking contrast against the rugged coastal backdrop, symbolizing a powerful connection to natural landscapes and the cultural heritage of textured hair traditions.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-with-afro-coils-and-leather-coat-by-rocky-seashore.jpg)

### [How Does Textured Hair Length Convey Historical Status in Various Cultures?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-textured-hair-length-convey-historical-status-in-various-cultures/)
![Hands gently caressing textured coils, she embodies self-reflection, a quiet moment honoring ancestral heritage and nurturing holistic well-being. The interplay of light and shadow highlights the beauty of natural hair, emphasizing a spiritual connection through mindful care practices.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-with-closed-eyes-touching-coiled-hair-in-black-and-white.jpg)

### [Did Hair Rituals Play a Role in Ancient African Social Structure?](https://roothea.co/question/did-hair-rituals-play-a-role-in-ancient-african-social-structure/)
![This evocative monochromatic image highlights a woman](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-woman-with-platinum-blonde-finger-wave-hairstyle.jpg)

### [Ancient Libyan Hairstyles](https://roothea.co/term/ancient-libyan-hairstyles/)
![The young girl](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/young-girl-adorned-with-traditional-beads-displaying-textured-hair-braids.jpg)

### [What Cultural Meanings Did Early Comb Materials Convey in Textured Hair Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/what-cultural-meanings-did-early-comb-materials-convey-in-textured-hair-heritage/)
![Echoing ancestral beauty rituals, the wooden hair fork signifies a commitment to holistic textured hair care. The monochromatic palette accentuates the timeless elegance, connecting contemporary styling with heritage and promoting wellness through mindful adornment for diverse black hair textures.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/artisan-crafted-wooden-hair-fork-for-textured-hair-holistic-care-rituals.jpg)

### [What Role Did Social Movements Play in Shaping Textured Hair Care Innovations?](https://roothea.co/question/what-role-did-social-movements-play-in-shaping-textured-hair-care-innovations/)
![The portrait, marked by deep monochrome contrast, captures the Black woman in locs, radiating confidence. This artistic portrayal signifies the strength found in Black hair traditions and self-expression, reflecting a profound connection to ancestral pride and holistic identity with beauty.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-black-woman-with-locs-and-light-play.jpg)

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            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/african-hairstyles/",
            "name": "African Hairstyles",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/african-hairstyles/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ African Hairstyles denote a rich collection of hair arrangements originating from various African communities, extending through diaspora, and holding deep cultural and functional significance for textured hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/ancient-african/",
            "name": "Ancient African",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/ancient-african/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ \"Ancient African,\" within the scope of textured hair understanding, refers to the foundational knowledge and gentle practices passed through generations across diverse African cultures."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/black-hair-standing/",
            "name": "Black Hair Standing",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/black-hair-standing/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Black Hair Standing describes the distinct orientation of coily and kinky hair patterns, where strands naturally rise from the scalp, exhibiting an inherent lift rather than lying flat."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/african-diaspora-hairstyles/",
            "name": "African Diaspora Hairstyles",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/african-diaspora-hairstyles/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ African Diaspora Hairstyles signify a continuum of styling traditions originating from or deeply influenced by African peoples dispersed globally, holding deep significance for textured hair care."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/african-bridal-hairstyles/",
            "name": "African Bridal Hairstyles",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/african-bridal-hairstyles/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ African Bridal Hairstyles describe a range of culturally resonant coiffures styled for individuals of African descent on their wedding day, extending beyond simple presentation."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/cultural-standing/",
            "name": "Cultural Standing",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/cultural-standing/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Cultural Standing, within the gentle world of textured hair, gracefully outlines the established regard and societal position of Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/african-social-organization/",
            "name": "African Social Organization",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/african-social-organization/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ African Social Organization, within the gentle sphere of textured hair understanding, refers to the inherent, interconnected structures and shared wisdom that have long guided the care and presentation of Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/african-adornment/",
            "name": "African Adornment",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/african-adornment/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ African Adornment, within the textured hair context, speaks to a purposeful practice far exceeding simple decoration."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/ancient-hairstyles/",
            "name": "Ancient Hairstyles",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/ancient-hairstyles/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Ancient Hairstyles, in the gentle lens of textured hair understanding, signify the historically rich array of hair arrangements and meticulous care practices developed by civilizations past, particularly revealing the intrinsic nature of coils, curls, and kinks."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/african-royal-hairstyles/",
            "name": "African Royal Hairstyles",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/african-royal-hairstyles/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ African Royal Hairstyles denote the distinguished hair constructions, historically gracing individuals of elevated standing across diverse African civilizations."
        }
    ]
}
```


---

**Original URL:** https://roothea.co/question/how-did-ancient-african-hairstyles-convey-social-standing/
