who among the following follow the matrilineal family system?
Who among the following follow the matrilineal family system?
Answer:
A matrilineal family system is one in which lineage, inheritance, and family ties are traced through the mother’s line rather than the father’s. Several societies around the world follow matrilineal systems. Here are some well-known examples:
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The Khasi Tribe:
- The Khasi people are one of the prominent matrilineal societies in India, predominantly residing in the northeastern state of Meghalaya. In Khasi culture, property and family name are inherited through the female line, typically from mother to daughter. The youngest daughter inherits the family property and takes care of the aged parents.
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The Garo Tribe:
- Similar to the Khasi, the Garo tribe also follows a matrilineal system and is found in the Indian states of Meghalaya and Assam. Inheritance and family ties are passed through the female line, and the youngest daughter often inherits the family property.
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The Nair Community:
- The Nairs, primarily located in the state of Kerala in India, historically followed a matrilineal system known as “Marumakkathayam.” In this system, property and descent were traced through daughters. Uncles, rather than fathers, played the primary role in the social upbringing and inheritance of their nephews and nieces.
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The Minangkabau People:
- The Minangkabau community in Indonesia is recognized as the world’s largest matrilineal society. In Minangkabau culture, inheritance of property and family name is transmitted through the female line. The women control the ancestral land, and men are expected to manage the estate and represent the family publicly.
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The Mosuo People:
- The Mosuo people, living around Lugu Lake in China, practice a unique form of matrilineal society where women lead the family and inheritance follows the female line. The concept of marriage in the Mosuo community is different from typical practices, involving “walking marriages” without permanent cohabitation and spouses living separately.
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The Akan People:
- In Ghana, the Akan people follow a matrilineal system. Lineage, property, and social status are inherited through the mother. Among the Akans, the maternal uncle is highly influential within the family, especially in decision-making processes.
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The Hopi Tribe:
- The Hopi Native American tribe, found in northeastern Arizona, follows a matrilineal system. Descent and inheritance are traced through the mother’s line, and children belong to their mother’s clan.
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The Tuareg People:
- The Tuareg, a Berber ethnic group in the Sahara region, also have matrilineal elements in their social structure. Although they have some patriarchal aspects, inheritance and clan affiliations are often traced through the female line.
Final Answer:
The Khasi, Garo, Nair, Minangkabau, Mosuo, Akan, Hopi, and Tuareg are examples of societies that follow matrilineal family systems. These communities trace lineage and inheritance through the mother’s side, giving women a central role in the social and familial structure.