clan

= = A clan is a mass of people grouped together based on kinship through a common ancestor. Usually the equivalent of a tribe, clans are a means of social organization in various cultures. Some clans are patrilineal, tracing descent through the male line, while others are matrilineal, with common relations regarding the female line. Clans were commonly found in early African societies and played a key role in their animistic religion, with deceasead ancestors used as a link between the living relatives and the dead.

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Created by Jaclyn Speer 9/2/08

Edited by: Charlie Baker Sept. 3, 2008