
Living in the southern montane grasslands of the western hemisphere, there is a tribe called the Snaginaneh. These people thrive as nomadic hunters and gatherers, using the abundant natural resources for food, clothing, tools, and their homes. The Snaginanehs, nicknamed the Snags, value every member of their small egalitarian society. Each person is assigned to specific jobs throughout the day depending upon their age and gender but no task is considered meaningless, rather, everyone’s work is appreciated. The reason that the Snaginanehs value each other and their relationships with one another, stems from the fact that the Snags are extremely family-oriented and consider the whole tribe to be one family; thus, everyone deserves respect from other members. However, that is not to say that disagreements never arise; therefore, the Snags have come up with a system of informal sanctions under the leadership of the wise couple to restore order in the community.
Please keep in mind that this work has been a collaborative effort by many people; in fact, each section has been written by a different individual. There will be many references to several aspects of the Snaginaneh culture, including family, the wise couple, and the white rhino (to name a few); note that these repeated topics are essential to the Snaginaneh way of life and affect all facets of their culture, thus the reason for their continued presence. By the end of the ethnography, one should feel quite acquainted with the Snaginanehs and their lifestyle, some of which will seem similar to well-known cultures and some of which is not so familiar.
*** Any additions made by the editor to the sections such as photos, videos, and comments will be distinguished by light blue text and/or footnotes. ***
Montane grasslands are relatively flat areas existing at high elevations, consisting of mostly wild grasses and small clusters of thick forest.
Language & Gender by KristaThe Snags practice direct communication and believe family is the most important aspect. Many different gestures displayed on this page represent the non-verbal way to communicate to each other. Snags marry according to the wishes of the "wise couple." Subsistence & Exchange by PadenThe Snaginaneh people practice balanced reciprocity. They take
care of each other and work as a whole. They are hunters and
gatherers but practice small horticulture. They are highly mobile,
moving with the herds for survival.Sex, Love, & Marriage by AdamSex, love, and marriage are all very important parts of Snaginanehs way of life. From a young age love is preached to children and ends with a couple being granted the right of marriage.Family & Household by AmandaFamily and strong community ties are very important to the
Snaginanehs. They respect each other and help each other as a
way to draw closer and thrive.Kinship & Social Organization by BeccaThe kinship and social organizations of the Snaginaneh people
are set up to show the value placed on the customs and traditions
of the society and building relationships between the people
themselves.Political Organization by PaulThe Snaginanehs have a simple, uncentralized political structure.
Most decisions and disputes are resolved by everyone as a whole,
with special considerations given to the thoughts of the wise couple.Religion by RossTo the Snaginanehs, religion is the basis for social interaction and
moral boundaries. The Snags put a huge emphasis on their faith to
help shape their current lives and their futures.Art & Cultural Values by LaceySnaginaneh art reflects this tribe's cultural values. This page looks
at several aspects of the Snaginaneh life and how it reflects the
Sngainanehs' cultural values.
Our History by JennaOur Video History by Libby