# What Historical Laws Shaped Views on Textured Hair Identity? ❉ Question

**Published:** 2025-06-12
**Author:** Roothea
**Categories:** Question

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![The image captures the deliberate act of adjusting a silk turban, reflecting protective styling](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-adjusting-silk-turban-protective-style-for-natural-hair-care.jpg)

## Roots

In the quiet spaces of personal reflection, a question sometimes whispers: How did the coils, kinks, and waves that crown our heads become entangled with the cold pronouncements of the law? For those whose heritage connects them to textured hair, this query reaches far beyond casual interest. It touches the deep current of identity, stretching back through generations, a continuum of survival, spirit, and undeniable beauty. Understanding the historical legal landscape that shaped views on [textured hair identity](/area/textured-hair-identity/) demands a journey to the very source, an exploration of how elemental biology and ancient reverence met the harsh realities of imposed social order.

The story of [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/) is as ancient as humanity itself, rooted in the biological adaptations that allowed our ancestors to thrive across varied climates. African hair, with its unique elliptical follicle shape and tight curl patterns, offered natural protection from the sun’s intense rays and provided a cooling airflow to the scalp. Before the shadow of European colonization, hair was a vibrant language within African societies.

Styles communicated social status, marital standing, age, wealth, and even religious affiliation. In West African societies, the specific patterns woven into hair could signal an individual’s clan or tribe, a rich visual lexicon of belonging and identity.

![This arresting image portrays a woman with distinct style, combining the cultural richness of textured locs with an avant-garde shaved design, representing her unique self-expression and heritage. It serves as a powerful statement within holistic hair culture, celebrating Black identity and innovative textured hair aesthetics](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-woman-with-locs-and-precision-shaved-hair-design.jpg)

## What Early Laws Targeted Hair Identity?

The legal systems of the Western world, however, quickly sought to dismantle this inherent power and connection to ancestral practices. The arrival of European slave traders in the 15th and 16th centuries marked a brutal turning point. Enslaved Africans, upon their forced arrival in the Americas, often had their heads shaved. This act, far from mere hygiene, was a deliberate, violent effort to strip away cultural identity, to sever the physical link to homeland and heritage.

In the aftermath of the transatlantic slave trade, colonial powers and later, the fledgling American states, enacted laws and social codes that aimed to control Black bodies and, by extension, Black hair. These early legal frameworks laid the groundwork for centuries of discrimination, weaving into the legal fabric the notion that textured hair, in its natural glory, was somehow unruly, uncivilized, or inferior. It was a calculated attempt to erase the visual markers of a proud lineage, compelling conformity to European aesthetic standards.

> The forced shaving of African captives upon arrival in the Americas represented a brutal, early legal assault on textured hair, aiming to erase cultural identity.
A particularly stark example of this legal suppression comes from 18th-century Louisiana. The Spanish colonial governor Esteban Rodríguez Miró, in 1786, issued the infamous **Tignon Laws**. These decrees mandated that all women of African descent, whether enslaved or free, conceal their hair with a knotted headscarf or tignon when in public. This law was not merely a fashion dictate.

It was a social engineering tool designed to enforce a rigid racial hierarchy. Free women of color in New Orleans had cultivated elaborate hairstyles, often adorned with feathers, beads, and silks, which, in the eyes of the white ruling class, gave them a level of elegance and social standing that threatened the established order and, some historical accounts suggest, even attracted white suitors. The Tignon Law aimed to visually mark these women as belonging to the enslaved class, regardless of their actual status, asserting their perceived racial inferiority and limiting their perceived competition with white women for social status.

While the [Tignon Laws](/area/tignon-laws/) were eventually unenforced after the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, their spirit lingered, shaping attitudes and practices. The legal system, through explicit laws and implicit social codes, normalized the idea that Black hair, when worn in its natural state, was inherently less professional, less beautiful, or less acceptable. This historical precedent created a persistent pressure for Black individuals to alter their hair textures to align with Eurocentric ideals, often involving harmful chemical straightening or heat styling.

![This intimate monochromatic image showcases a mindful approach to dark, coiled hair maintenance through controlled combing, symbolizing a deep connection to ancestral grooming traditions and the art of nurturing one](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/person-combing-dark-coiled-hair-with-wooden-wide-toothed-comb.jpg)

![The image evokes a serene yet intense presence, showcasing rich cultural heritage through traditional braided styling, emphasizing cowrie shells and white cosmetic markings on the textured Afro hair. The child](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-a-young-person-with-braided-hair-adorned-with-cowrie-shells.jpg)

## Ritual

The narrative of textured hair is intricately woven with ritual, a practice that sustained its heritage even as legal systems sought to impose uniformity. Styling is not merely an aesthetic choice; it embodies a profound connection to ancestry, community, and self-preservation. When we consider how [historical laws](/area/historical-laws/) shaped views on textured hair identity, we see how these legislative dictates attempted to disrupt a deeply ingrained cultural ritual, forcing a re-evaluation of what was visible, what was permitted, and what remained sacred within private spaces.

Before the arrival of European colonists, [hair styling](/area/hair-styling/) in many [African societies](/area/african-societies/) was a communal activity, a time for social bonding, sharing ancestral knowledge, and conveying complex information about an individual’s life. Styles could denote age, marital status, or even a person’s surname. The act of braiding, twisting, and coiling was a living tradition, often passed down through generations, involving specific techniques and tools.

![Bathed in natural light, this tender scene encapsulates a mother](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/mother-combing-daughters-coily-hair-sunlight-natural-style-black-and-white.jpg)

## How Did Law Influence Hair Styling Practices?

The imposition of discriminatory laws, such as the Tignon Laws, directly targeted visible hair expressions. While the intent was to diminish and control, Black women, with their boundless spirit, transformed these restrictions into expressions of creative resistance. They took the mandated [headwraps](/area/headwraps/) and crafted them into elaborate, striking statements, using luxurious fabrics and artistic knots.

This act of defiance demonstrated a powerful refusal to allow external dictates to fully extinguish the inner radiance connected to hair identity. The wraps, which were meant to be a symbol of subjugation, became a sign of distinction and a vibrant assertion of cultural belonging.

The era of slavery also witnessed the ingenious use of styling as a means of survival and communication. Enslaved people, denied literacy and freedom of expression, used cornrow patterns as a code to share secret messages, sometimes even weaving maps for escape routes into their hair. Rice seeds and beans were also concealed within braided styles, providing sustenance during treacherous journeys to freedom. These acts underscore how deeply connected hair rituals were to the very survival and resistance of communities facing brutal oppression.

> Beyond fashion, hair styling became a silent language of survival and coded resistance for enslaved people.
The legacy of these historical laws extended beyond explicit prohibitions, seeping into [societal norms](/area/societal-norms/) that perpetuated [hair discrimination](/area/hair-discrimination/) even after formal legal structures changed. In the post-slavery era and throughout the Jim Crow period, textured hair, particularly tighter coils, was often labeled “nappy” or “unruly,” leading to immense pressure to chemically straighten hair to conform to [Eurocentric beauty](/area/eurocentric-beauty/) standards. This cultural conditioning, a direct offshoot of historical efforts to devalue Black hair, impacted educational and employment opportunities. Black students sometimes resorted to chemical relaxers to comply with school rules, resulting in physical harm and emotional distress.

The “**Comb Test**,” though not a codified law, emerged as a societal barrier, particularly in the United States. Organizations would hang a fine-tooth comb at their entrance, signaling that if one’s hair could not be easily combed through, entry was denied. This informal but pervasive discriminatory practice served to exclude individuals with tightly coiled hair from certain spaces, reinforcing the idea that certain hair textures were unacceptable. Similarly, during the Apartheid era in South Africa, the “**Pencil Test**” was used as a tool for racial classification: if a pencil placed in a person’s hair remained in place when they shook their head, they were classified as “Native” or “Colored,” not white, impacting their identity documents and enforcing segregation.

Wigs and hair extensions also carry a profound historical weight within the Black community. Far from a modern trend, their use traces back centuries in Africa, where they signified status, wealth, and spiritual connection. In ancient Egypt, elaborate wigs made from human hair, animal fur, or plant fibers, often adorned with precious stones, were symbols of power for both men and women. The Mbundu people of Angola, for example, wore decorative wigs, and the Mbalantu of the Wambo group in Namibia utilized sinew extensions to create braids that reached their ankles.

In the diaspora, especially during times of intense hair discrimination, wigs provided a means of protection and adaptation, allowing individuals to navigate discriminatory societal expectations while preserving their natural hair underneath. The invention of the modern hair weave in 1951 by an African American woman, **Christina Mae Jenkins**, further speaks to this ingenuity and the community’s continuous quest for versatile hair solutions rooted in historical practice.

- **Cornrows** ❉ Ancient braiding patterns, sometimes used as secret maps or to hide seeds during enslavement.

- **Headwraps** ❉ From forced covering to stylish defiance, transforming a symbol of subjugation into an expression of cultural pride.

- **Wigs and Extensions** ❉ Long-standing African tradition of adornment and status, later a practical solution for navigating discriminatory societal norms.

![This striking portrait celebrates the beauty of natural, Afro-textured hair, reflecting ancestral heritage and promoting holistic hair care. The image invites contemplation on self-expression through expressive styling while embracing the unique textures and forms inherent in coiled, natural hair, fostering a powerful narrative](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-woman-with-natural-afro-textured-hair-elegance.jpg)

![Granular clay, captured in stark monochrome, speaks to earth](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/artisanal-clay-mask-close-up-for-holistic-textured-hair-care-routine.jpg)

## Relay

The enduring legacy of historical laws on textured [hair identity](/area/hair-identity/) finds its contemporary expression in the continuous pursuit of holistic care and self-determination. The wisdom gathered from [ancestral practices](/area/ancestral-practices/) and the [scientific understanding](/area/scientific-understanding/) of textured hair are relayed across generations, forming a vibrant counter-narrative to centuries of legal and social marginalization. Understanding the complex interplay of these forces requires moving beyond surface-level examinations to consider how past mandates still echo in present-day experiences.

Ancestral wellness philosophies always viewed [hair care](/area/hair-care/) as an integral part of overall well-being, connected to the body, mind, and spirit. Traditional [African hair care](/area/african-hair-care/) involved natural butters, herbs, and oils to maintain moisture and health. These practices were not isolated beauty routines; they were communal rituals, a source of spiritual power, and a direct link to ancestors.

![This powerful monochromatic portrait honors natural textured hair heritage through the confident gaze of a young woman, her closely cropped coils symbolizing strength and self-acceptance. The interplay of light and shadow enhances her features, inviting the viewer to contemplate the intersection of beauty, identity, and ancestral expression](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-portrait-of-young-woman-with-short-natural-textured-hair.jpg)

## How Do Ancestral Hair Practices Inform Modern Understanding?

The journey from historical oppression to contemporary affirmation is powerfully evidenced in movements like the [CROWN Act](/area/crown-act/) (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair). This legislation directly confronts the lingering effects of historical hair discrimination by providing legal protection against bias based on [hair texture](/area/hair-texture/) and protective styles such as braids, locs, and twists in workplaces and schools. The CROWN Act acknowledges that hair discrimination is not merely an appearance issue, but a conduit for racial discrimination, often stemming from [Eurocentric beauty standards](/area/eurocentric-beauty-standards/) institutionalized over centuries.

The path to the CROWN Act reveals the persistent struggle against ingrained biases. For instance, a 2020 study by Duke University found that Black women with natural hairstyles were often perceived as less professional and competent, and were less likely to be recommended for job interviews, compared to candidates with straight hair. This modern statistical evidence underscores the direct, measurable impact of historical laws and societal norms that have devalued textured hair. The CROWN Act aims to dismantle these biases, ensuring that individuals are free to express their [cultural identity](/area/cultural-identity/) without professional or educational repercussions.

![The portrait encapsulates the dance between light and shadow, celebrating the unique texture of braided hair. It evokes a sense of ancestral connection, holistic hair care rituals passed down through generations, and the powerful expression of cultural identity inherent in traditional Black hair styling](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-silhouette-against-sunlight-showcasing-braided-textured-hair-in.jpg)

## What Does Science Say about Textured Hair and Its Care?

From a scientific perspective, the biological uniqueness of textured hair calls for specific care regimens, often validating ancient methods. The tightly coiled structure of textured hair means that natural oils produced by the scalp struggle to travel down the hair shaft, leading to a predisposition for dryness. This scientific understanding explains the historical emphasis on nourishing oils and butters in [African hair](/area/african-hair/) care traditions.

Shea butter, for example, widely used in some African tribes, helps moisturize and protect hair from harsh environmental conditions. Similarly, the use of [rice water](/area/rice-water/) in Asian hair care, an ancient practice, is now understood to benefit hair through its high concentration of inositol, a carbohydrate known to repair damaged hair and promote resilience.

The creation of [hair typing](/area/hair-typing/) systems, while seemingly scientific, also carries a complex and sometimes troubling heritage. The earliest hair typing system, developed in 1908 by German Nazi scientist Eugen Fischer, was used to categorize Namibians based on their hair texture to determine their “proximity to whiteness,” a chilling echo of racial supremacist ideologies. While modern systems, such as Andre Walker’s chart popularized in the 1990s, aim to provide practical guidance for textured hair care, their historical precursors remind us to approach categorization with a keen awareness of its potentially biased origins.

Nighttime rituals, particularly the use of bonnets and silk wraps, extend beyond mere convenience. They are modern manifestations of protective practices rooted in ancestral wisdom, preventing tangling, preserving moisture, and reducing friction against harsh fabrics that could damage delicate strands. These routines acknowledge the specific needs of textured hair while continuing a long-standing tradition of mindful, holistic care.

> The CROWN Act represents a significant contemporary legal step to recognize and combat hair discrimination, which historically targets Black individuals.
The discourse surrounding textured hair identity continues to evolve, informed by legal advancements, scientific discovery, and the unwavering commitment to cultural heritage. It is a dialogue that affirms the inherent worth and beauty of every strand, irrespective of its texture, standing as a testament to the resilience of those who have historically navigated and resisted the legal and societal pressures to conform.

The importance of passing down knowledge about [textured hair care](/area/textured-hair-care/) is paramount. It is a shared responsibility, a familial and communal inheritance that ensures future generations understand the profound connection between their hair, their history, and their identity. This relay of information, from ancient remedies to contemporary scientific understanding, offers a pathway to not just healthy hair, but also to a deeper appreciation of one’s lineage. This involves:

- **Communal Care** ❉ Reaffirming the tradition of hair care as a bonding activity within families and communities, where wisdom is shared and practices are passed down.

- **Mindful Product Choices** ❉ Selecting products that align with ancestral ingredients and modern scientific understanding of textured hair needs, moving away from harmful straightening chemicals.

- **Advocacy for Protection** ❉ Supporting legal frameworks like the CROWN Act that protect against discrimination, building on the legacy of resistance against hair-based prejudice.

![The woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-portrait-of-a-woman-with-intricate-braided-hairstyle-and-ornament.jpg)

![The monochrome composition draws focus to the detailed braid patterns and the textured bun, emphasizing the importance of protective styles in Black hair traditions. This image celebrates hair styling as a powerful form of heritage expression and individual identity through holistic hair care](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portraiture-woman-protective-hairstyling-braids-twisted-bun-with.jpg)

## Reflection

To truly understand what historical laws shaped views on textured hair identity is to listen to the echoes of centuries, to feel the gentle pull of a lineage that defies definition by external decree. The journey through these legal landscapes, from the Tignon Laws to modern legislative victories like the CROWN Act, reveals a constant tension: the relentless force of suppression against the unyielding spirit of self-expression. Yet, through it all, the soul of a strand remains unbowed, vibrant, and resolute.

Textured hair is not merely a biological attribute; it is a living archive, a scroll upon which stories of ancestral wisdom, enduring resilience, and triumphant beauty are inscribed. Each coil, each kink, each wave holds the memory of hands that braided, herbs that nourished, and spirits that resisted. The laws that sought to diminish it only served to illuminate its profound significance, proving that true identity can never be legislated away.

As we stand in the present, benefiting from the courage of those who came before, we carry a responsibility to honor this heritage. Our understanding of textured hair identity is deepened by acknowledging the past, celebrating the ingenuity of those who transformed mandates into markers of distinction, and upholding the rights of all to wear their crowns with pride. The evolution of our hair care, from ancient remedies to contemporary formulations, is a testament to this ongoing dialogue between past and present, science and soul. The living library of textured hair continues to write its chapters, each one a testament to the enduring power of heritage.

![Defined 4a finger coils exemplify intentional texture styling embracing the wearer](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-african-american-woman-showcasing-finger-coils-and-edges.jpg)

![The image exudes elegance, celebrating the inherent beauty of Afro-textured hair, where each defined coil contributes to a powerful statement of identity and heritage. Soft light dances on her radiant skin creating a captivating moment that honors tradition and promotes holistic hair care practices](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-portrait-of-woman-with-natural-afro-textured-hair-in-monochrome.jpg)

## References

- Bennett-Alexander, Dawn D. and Laura P. Harrison. <i>Employment Law for Business_. McGraw-Hill Education, 2016.

- Gould, Virginia M. _The Devil’s Lane: Sex and Race in the Early South_. Oxford University Press, 2002.

- Sherrow, Victoria. _Encyclopedia of Hair: A Cultural History_. Greenwood Publishing Group, 2006.

- Tharps, Lori L. and Ayana D. Byrd. _Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America_. St. Martin’s Griffin, 2001.

- White, Deborah Gray. _Ar’n’t I a Woman?: Female Slaves in the Plantation South_. W. W. Norton & Company, 1999.

- Walker, Andre. _Andre Talks Hair_. Simon & Schuster, 1997.

- Allen, Maya. “Braids? Oh, We Go Way Back.” _Byrdie.com_, 17 Feb. 2021.

- Donaldson, Star. “The Controversial History of the Hair Typing System.” _Byrdie.com_, 25 Oct. 2021.

- Duke University. “Hair Discrimination Study Findings.” 2020.

- Roberts, Dorothy. _Killing the Black Body: Race, Reproduction, and the Meaning of Liberty_. Pantheon Books, 1997.

- Morrow, B. _Louisiana: A History_. Prentice Hall, 2004.

## Glossary

### [Cultural Views](https://roothea.co/area/cultural-views/)

Meaning ❉ Cultural Views, within the sphere of textured hair understanding, signify the collective societal perspectives that shape how individuals perceive, maintain, and interact with their hair.

### [Historical Hair Laws](https://roothea.co/area/historical-hair-laws/)

Meaning ❉ Historical Hair Laws denote the past socio-legal strictures and informal societal conventions that historically sought to regulate or restrict the natural appearance of hair, disproportionately affecting individuals with Black and mixed-race hair textures.

### [Ancestral Hair](https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-hair/)

Meaning ❉ Ancestral Hair refers to the inherited genetic characteristics and structural predispositions of one's hair, particularly significant for individuals with Black or mixed-race heritage.

### [Cornrows](https://roothea.co/area/cornrows/)

Meaning ❉ Cornrows denote a particular braiding technique where hair is sectioned precisely and braided flat against the scalp, forming raised rows that trace defined pathways.

### [Societal Norms](https://roothea.co/area/societal-norms/)

Meaning ❉ Societal Norms, within the delicate world of textured hair understanding, refer to the commonly accepted, often unspoken, standards that subtly influence how Black and mixed-race hair is perceived, cared for, and presented.

### [Hair Typing](https://roothea.co/area/hair-typing/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Typing offers a framework for understanding the unique curl patterns, coil formations, and wave textures present across Black and mixed-race hair.

### [Headwraps](https://roothea.co/area/headwraps/)

Meaning ❉ Headwraps, within the realm of textured hair understanding, are protective head coverings, deeply rooted in the heritage of Black and mixed-race communities.

### [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.

### [CROWN Act](https://roothea.co/area/crown-act/)

Meaning ❉ The CROWN Act establishes legal protections against discrimination based on hair texture and styles frequently worn by individuals of Black or mixed heritage.

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

Meaning ❉ Textured Hair Identity denotes the deeply personal understanding and acceptance of one's natural curl, coil, or wave configuration, especially significant for individuals of Black and mixed-race heritage.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [How Did Tignon Laws Shape Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-tignon-laws-shape-textured-hair/)
![The image reflects a heritage of natural Black hair care. It reveals a deep bond between women as hair nourishment is applied directly to the scalp.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/melanin-rich-skin-tending-to-natural-black-hair-coils-with-ancient-wisdom.jpg)

### [Why Did Sumptuary Laws Target Black Women's Hair Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/why-did-sumptuary-laws-target-black-womens-hair-heritage/)
![Within an intimate, intergenerational setting, women collaborate, passing down ancestral braiding techniques, celebrating diverse hands styling while addressing the nuances of low porosity high-density coils, applying emollient products and showcasing Fulani braiding artistry and holistic hair care. The Madrasi head tie is showcased for identity.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/generational-braiding-heritage-diverse-hands-styling-natural-textured-hair-coils.jpg)

### [Identity Laws](https://roothea.co/term/identity-laws/)
![The monochrome gradient and ash-like texture symbolize resilience, echoing the strength of tightly coiled hair and diverse textured hair narratives. Each grain mirrors individual ancestral strands woven into a rich tapestry, a testament to the timeless heritage of natural texture and formations.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-volcanic-ash-sedimentation-representing-dense-textured-hair.jpg)

### [What Traditions Shaped Textured Hair Identity?](https://roothea.co/question/what-traditions-shaped-textured-hair-identity/)
![This monochromatic portrait speaks to a legacy of heritage and artistry, highlighting the beauty of textured hair braided into meticulous designs and adorned with symbolic coinage, prompting contemplation on the ancestral ties that shape identity, personal expression and holistic hair practices.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-woman-adorned-in-traditional-braids-and-coin-headdress.jpg)

### [Do Historical Laws Still Impact Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/do-historical-laws-still-impact-textured-hair/)
![In stark monochrome, the coil formation mirrors ancestral patterns etched into the essence of textured hair heritage, presenting itself as a visual time capsule, echoing wisdom and resilience through interconnected spiral formations.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/petrified-coil-essence-time-capsule-embodiment-of-ancestral-memory-texture.jpg)

### [How Did Tignon Laws Shape Textured Hair Identity?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-tignon-laws-shape-textured-hair-identity/)
![The basket weaver](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elderly-woman-weaving-basket-with-coiled-hair-crowned-by-wrapped-headcloth.jpg)

### [How Have Cultural Norms Shaped Textured Hair Identity over Time?](https://roothea.co/question/how-have-cultural-norms-shaped-textured-hair-identity-over-time/)
![This monochromatic image exudes serene strength and grace, highlighting the beauty of natural coiled hair. The woman](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-monochromatic-portrait-of-a-young-woman-with-natural-coiled-hair.jpg)

### [What Is the Historical Basis for Hair Discrimination Laws?](https://roothea.co/question/what-is-the-historical-basis-for-hair-discrimination-laws/)
![A black and white image resonates deeply through showcasing the passing down of cultural knowledge via hands intertwining kinky hair. This familial moment celebrates heritage, highlights the intricate artistry of black hairstyling traditions, and emphasizes commitment to natural hair care within an intergenerational black family dynamic, enhancing porosity.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/generational-hands-braiding-black-textured-hair-ancestral-tradition-and.jpg)

### [Why Do Historical Laws Persist in Textured Hair Practices?](https://roothea.co/question/why-do-historical-laws-persist-in-textured-hair-practices/)
![Captured in black and white, this evocative portrait features an individual with closely shaved textured hair, embracing their natural hair, inviting the beholder to reflect on the artistry of modern expression and the beauty found within simple, striking photographic contrast, and hair texture.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-diverse-model-short-natural-platinum-textured-hair-statement.jpg)

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                "text": "The journey from historical oppression to contemporary affirmation is powerfully evidenced in movements like the CROWN Act (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair). This legislation directly confronts the lingering effects of historical hair discrimination by providing legal protection against bias based on hair texture and protective styles such as braids, locs, and twists in workplaces and schools. The CROWN Act acknowledges that hair discrimination is not merely an appearance issue, but a conduit for racial discrimination, often stemming from Eurocentric beauty standards institutionalized over centuries."
            }
        },
        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "What Does Science Say About Textured Hair and Its Care?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": "From a scientific perspective, the biological uniqueness of textured hair calls for specific care regimens, often validating ancient methods. The tightly coiled structure of textured hair means that natural oils produced by the scalp struggle to travel down the hair shaft, leading to a predisposition for dryness. This scientific understanding explains the historical emphasis on nourishing oils and butters in African hair care traditions. Shea butter, for example, widely used in some African tribes, helps moisturize and protect hair from harsh environmental conditions. Similarly, the use of rice water in Asian hair care, an ancient practice, is now understood to benefit hair through its high concentration of inositol, a carbohydrate known to repair damaged hair and promote resilience."
            }
        }
    ]
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "WebPage",
    "@id": "https://roothea.co/question/what-historical-laws-shaped-views-on-textured-hair-identity/",
    "mentions": [
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-identity/",
            "name": "Textured Hair Identity",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-identity/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Textured Hair Identity denotes the deeply personal understanding and acceptance of one's natural curl, coil, or wave configuration, especially significant for individuals of Black and mixed-race heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair/",
            "name": "Textured Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair/",
            "description": "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."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/tignon-laws/",
            "name": "Tignon Laws",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/tignon-laws/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The Tignon Laws, enacted in late 18th-century colonial Louisiana, were decrees requiring free and enslaved Black women to cover their hair with a tignon or headscarf when in public spaces."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/historical-laws/",
            "name": "Historical Laws",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/historical-laws/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Historical Laws, within the gentle scope of textured hair understanding, point to the fundamental, enduring principles that guide the distinct characteristics and responses of coils, curls, and waves."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/african-societies/",
            "name": "African Societies",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/african-societies/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ \"African Societies,\" within the scope of understanding textured hair, systematizing its care, and applying knowledge, points to the gentle wisdom and communal practices that have long supported hair well-being across varied African cultures."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-styling/",
            "name": "Hair Styling",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-styling/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Styling, within the gentle rhythm of textured hair care, signifies the intentional arrangement and purposeful presentation of strands."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/headwraps/",
            "name": "Headwraps",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/headwraps/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Headwraps, within the realm of textured hair understanding, are protective head coverings, deeply rooted in the heritage of Black and mixed-race communities."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-discrimination/",
            "name": "Hair Discrimination",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-discrimination/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Discrimination, a subtle yet impactful bias, refers to the differential and often unfavorable treatment of individuals based on the natural characteristics or chosen styles of their hair, especially those textures and forms historically worn by Black and mixed-race persons."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/eurocentric-beauty/",
            "name": "Eurocentric Beauty",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/eurocentric-beauty/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Eurocentric Beauty describes an aesthetic framework that historically positions features and hair textures common in European populations as the prevailing ideal."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/societal-norms/",
            "name": "Societal Norms",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/societal-norms/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Societal Norms, within the delicate world of textured hair understanding, refer to the commonly accepted, often unspoken, standards that subtly influence how Black and mixed-race hair is perceived, cared for, and presented."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/scientific-understanding/",
            "name": "Scientific Understanding",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/scientific-understanding/",
            "description": "Meaning❉ Scientific Understanding, within the context of textured hair, represents the quiet discernment of your unique strands' inherent properties."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-practices/",
            "name": "Ancestral Practices",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-practices/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Ancestral Practices, within the context of textured hair understanding, describe the enduring wisdom and gentle techniques passed down through generations, forming a foundational knowledge for nurturing Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-identity/",
            "name": "Hair Identity",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-identity/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Identity, for those with textured strands, signifies the deeply personal recognition of one's unique hair characteristics ❉ its growth patterns, inherent porosity, and specific moisture needs ❉ uniting ancestral knowledge with contemporary care science."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/african-hair-care/",
            "name": "African Hair Care",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/african-hair-care/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ African Hair Care defines a specialized approach to preserving the vitality and structural integrity of textured hair, particularly for individuals of Black and mixed-race heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-care/",
            "name": "Hair Care",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-care/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Care, when understood through the lens of textured hair, signifies a mindful discipline for preserving the vigor of coily, kinky, and wavy strands."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/eurocentric-beauty-standards/",
            "name": "Eurocentric Beauty Standards",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/eurocentric-beauty-standards/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Eurocentric beauty standards denote a historical leaning towards hair characteristics commonly found within European lineages, such as straightness, fineness, or gentle waves, alongside particular color and density ideals."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-texture/",
            "name": "Hair Texture",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-texture/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Texture identifies the inherent physical configuration of individual hair strands, from gentle waves to tightly coiled patterns, a fundamental characteristic for those with Black and mixed heritage hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act/",
            "name": "CROWN Act",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The CROWN Act establishes legal protections against discrimination based on hair texture and styles frequently worn by individuals of Black or mixed heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/cultural-identity/",
            "name": "Cultural Identity",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/cultural-identity/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Cultural Identity, when considered through the lens of textured hair, represents a soft, abiding connection to the deep-seated wisdom of ancestral hair practices and the shared experiences of a community."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/african-hair/",
            "name": "African Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/african-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ African Hair identifies the diverse spectrum of natural hair structures primarily observed within populations of African lineage, characterized by distinctive curl formations, ranging from gentle waves to tightly coiled patterns."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/rice-water/",
            "name": "Rice Water",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/rice-water/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Rice Water, a gentle liquid derived from the steeping or boiling of rice grains, stands as a historically cherished elixir, its practical application extending deeply into the care practices for textured hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-typing/",
            "name": "Hair Typing",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-typing/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Typing offers a framework for understanding the unique curl patterns, coil formations, and wave textures present across Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-care/",
            "name": "Textured Hair Care",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-care/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Textured Hair Care refers to the considered practice of attending to the unique structure of coily, kinky, and wavy hair, particularly for those with Black and mixed-race heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/cultural-views/",
            "name": "Cultural Views",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/cultural-views/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Cultural Views, within the sphere of textured hair understanding, signify the collective societal perspectives that shape how individuals perceive, maintain, and interact with their hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/historical-hair-laws/",
            "name": "Historical Hair Laws",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/historical-hair-laws/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Historical Hair Laws denote the past socio-legal strictures and informal societal conventions that historically sought to regulate or restrict the natural appearance of hair, disproportionately affecting individuals with Black and mixed-race hair textures."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-hair/",
            "name": "Ancestral Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Ancestral Hair refers to the inherited genetic characteristics and structural predispositions of one's hair, particularly significant for individuals with Black or mixed-race heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/cornrows/",
            "name": "Cornrows",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/cornrows/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Cornrows denote a particular braiding technique where hair is sectioned precisely and braided flat against the scalp, forming raised rows that trace defined pathways."
        }
    ]
}
```


---

**Original URL:** https://roothea.co/question/what-historical-laws-shaped-views-on-textured-hair-identity/
