*** African tribes Suri Surma








African Tribes: The Tandroy

 Tandroy
Figure 1.-- The Tandroy/Antandroy were historically known as Ampatres (17th cetury). They were a nomadic people living in the arid southern Androy region of the country. This suggests that they were a weaker tribe. Today many have adopted a more settled life style. HBC has archived an unidentified man with his 10 wives and some of their young children. The photo looks to have been taken in the 1950s. They look to be dressed up forbthe photgraph, we suspet that most did not usually wear much clothing.

The Tandroy/Antandroy were historically known as Ampatres (17th cetury). They were a nomadic people living in the arid southern Androy region of the country. This suggests that they were a weaker tribe. Today many have adopted a more settled life style. The Tandroy formed a confederation with one of the other southern tribes. They were ruled by the Zafimanara dynasty until unusually severe Monsoon flooding caused the downfall of the kingdom (about 1790). The rough terrain and arid climate of the Androy region and isolated population prevented the powerful northern Imerina kingdom from conquering the south (19th century). The French colonial authorities also had difficulty establish control over the south. Since independence (1958-60) the Tandroy have not fared well. The more settled and educated norther tribes looked down on the Tandroy resulting in economic marginalization. There has been substantial migration and intermarriage with other tribes. They played a role in protests that led to President Philibert Tsiranana's government (1972). HBC has archived an unidentified man with his 10 wives and some of their young children. The high number of wives could mean that he is a chief. In traditional culture, large families is a status symbol of wealth and endurance. Having so many wives means that he is able to provide food for them and their children and is an exceptionally virile man. Unlike America, there are no thought of toxic masculinity.







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Created: 12:06 PM 4/14/2025
Last updated: 12:07 PM 4/14/2025