In the present day and age of the United States, their are many African Americans who do not understand their past history or their descendants culture. In families of most African Americans, if their grandparents are not around then it is most likely they will still have no clue about their past heritage or culture. In this essay, I will explain what it means to marry a woman or a man from the Yoruba tradition. .
In Yoruba tradition it all starts from the emotions in the air. When feelings are at large and the sparks are flaring, the men of the Yoruba culture have no problem at pursuing his woman. No matter how long it takes, if the man has a particular interest in his woman then he will persistently show his love for her until an agreement is reached between both of them. The alrena who was paid by the Yoruba man, related messages between the man and women. The alrena would bring gifts for the woman, even stake out in front of her house to find out what type of woman the man is dealing with. The women usually takes interest in the man the more often he vouches his love for her. Although she is extremely careful who she chooses, she is more likely to take a interest to the man that shows her the most attention and love. Once it is clear that they are in love, they look for sanctioning by their peers and head on to meet the parents. This first step is called Courtship.
As time proceeds, and their love for one another keeps growing they will eventually fall into the Introduction stage of their culture. First, the man will tell his family his desire to marry the woman he wants. If his family can agree with him, they then will make an effort to meet up with the woman's family and start a formal gathering. This gathering takes place at the bride's house and is their responsibility to care of their guests. Each member of the family would be dressed in traditional garments and ready to discuss all the hardships and good moments that can come from their proposal.
