Abstract
This paper explores the critical cultural dynamics of pre-colonial Yoruba society, focusing on how women utilized economic power to defy patriarchal structures, assert their rights and influence, and combat social problems such as domestic violence, restricted reproductive rights, and child marriage. By delving into historical and oral tradition sources, the research uncovers roles and strategies Yoruba women employed to counteract many of the social problems post-colonial women navigate in the present times. The study critically examines historical contexts, engages existing data, investigates economic roles, and argues that the post-colonial Yoruba society has a lot to benefit from interrogating the pre-colonial era. By delving into historical and oral tradition sources, the research uncovered roles and strategies Yoruba women employed to counteract most of the social problems post-colonial women navigate in present times. The study will bring to light positive contemporary implications of historical insight into the lives of pre-colonial Yoruba women. Specifically, the study examines the roles of women’s associations, such as ‘iyalaje, (traders) and ‘iyalode’ (female chieftains) in providing economic opportunities and a platform for social resistance. Additionally, it will highlight women’s economic contributions through trade, agriculture, and craftwork, by analyzing the crucial roles they played in the local and regional economies. By analyzing the intersection of gender, economy, and social resistance, the study will offer a comprehensive understanding of the agency and resilience of Yoruba women in pre-colonial times. The study will adopt the methods of philosophy which include conceptual analysis and philosophical argumentation.
Presenters
Omobola BadejoSenior Lecturer, Humanities/Philosophy, Obafemi Awolowo University, Osun, Nigeria
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
YORUBA WOMEN, ECONOMIC POWER, PRE-COLONIAL AND POST-COLONIAL, GENDER ROLES
