Research on Braid History

The history of all braids dates back to 3500 BC.The style maintained a historical survival. "From classic cornrows and simple three-strand braids to Dutch braids and more, this symbolic style has been a sign of societal status, ethnicity, religion, and more". The origin of braids can be traced back to African cultur, specifically in Namibia. Braided hairstyles were a symbol of a person’s tribe, age, status, wealth, rank, and religion. It states "In relation to time periods, Pace credits Africa with cornrows in 3500 BC; Egypt with afro box braids in 3100 BC; Greece with the halo braid in the first century; Native Americans with pigtail braids in the fifth century; Europe with the crown braid from 1066 to 1485; China with the staircase braid from 1644 to 1912; the Caribbean with modern cornrows in the 1970s; and the internet (of course) with braid tutorials becoming especially popular in 2005 when YouTube launched." This indicates the dated times in which the differnt braid patterns were established. In certain cultures men wore braids. Some say they wear braids to honor their ancestors and culture. A man by the name of Frank Antoine says "My hair symbolizes the start of a new healing journey I started seven years ago". Braiding their hair helps them to feel connected to their ancestors. Some say that braiding their hair gives them strength and wisdom and a reflection of who they are.

https://www.byrdie.com/history-of-braids https://www.cbc.ca/news/indigenous/why-indigenous-boys-and-men-wear-braids-1.3463817 picture from canva