To The Root: Cornrows
Dating as far back as 3000 B.C, West Africans would wear these tightly knit braids as a protective style. With the enslavement of African peoples, the protection brought by this style was not only for hair. Enslaved Africans would use cornrows in many different ways to aid in survival of the unforgiving plantations. Maps for escape tunnels and paths were communicated through the intricate braids. Also, even grains of rice or small nuts were weaved into styles to feed runways slaves. Now cornrows serve as a stylish way to represent the traditions of African Americans from years past, who also are continuing protective practices of their ancestors.













