W. African Cultural Legacy Ms. Baquedano

Oral Tradition Beliefs, values, and knowledge were transferred orally, or by word of mouth Griots were the historians of West Africa They preserved stories through song and dance Most popular West African artists today are griots

Folk tales and proverbs Used to pass history and teach lessons Slaves going into America brought over folktales that are now part of American culture Proverbs are saying meant to teach something, many we still use today

Music Used to celebrate history and for important events like weddings or funerals Most used style: call and response Slaves would use this while working This style is seen in jazz, the blues, rap, and rock to this day

Instruments Balafon – percussion instrument, like a marimba Ngoni – string instrument Kora- similar to a harp

Dance Dances are used as rituals, celebrations, or to educate kids Sometimes masks are worn to signify spirits or animals

Visual Arts Used terra-cotta for pots and sculptures Made sculptures to honor leaders Made wooden masks for ceremony Created Kente cloth as well