Editing Dyula people (section)

==Dyula culture and society==
''Dyula'' society is hierarchical or [[caste]]-based, with [[nobility]] and vassals. Like numerous other African peoples, they previously held slaves (''jonw''), who were often [[prisoner of war|war prisoners]] from lands surrounding their territory. Descendants of former kings and generals had a higher status than their [[nomadic]] and more settled compatriots. With time, that difference has eroded, corresponding to the economic fortunes of the groups.

The traditional ''dyula'' social structure is further organized into various familial [[clan]] groups, and clan affiliation continues to be a dominant aspect of both collective and individual identity. People are fiercely loyal to their clan lineage, often expressing their cultural history and devotion through the oral traditions of dance and storytelling. The ''dyula'' are [[patrilineal]] and [[patriarchal]], with older males possessing the most power and influence. Men and women commonly reside in separate houses made of mud or cement - men occupying roundhouses and women in rectangular ones. The father heads the family, and inheritances are passed down from fathers to their sons. Despite being illegal, the ''dyula'' still practice [[polygamy]], and young people are often encouraged to marry within their own clan.

Another hereditary class that was afforded a particularly important status by the ''dyula'' social hierarchy was occupied by the ''tuntigi'' or warrior class. The ''dyula'' had long been accustomed to surrounding their cities with fortifications and taking up arms when it was deemed necessary in order to defend themselves and maintain the smooth flow of trade caravans. As a result, they became closely associated with the ''tuntigi'' warriors.
{{Clear}}