Dreadlocks facts for kids
Dreadlocks, also known as locks or dreads, are special coils of hair. They can form naturally if hair is left to grow without much grooming for a long time. Dreadlocks can also be made on purpose using different methods. People with all hair types can have dreadlocks.
Contents
What Are Dreadlocks?
Dreadlocks are basically sections of hair that have matted together into rope-like strands. They can be very long or short, thick or thin. Once formed, dreadlocks are usually permanent, but they can sometimes be undone with a lot of effort.
How Are Dreadlocks Made?
Many people choose to make their dreadlocks rather than waiting for them to form naturally. There are several popular ways to do this:
- Backcombing: This method involves using a comb to push hair towards the scalp, creating tangles that eventually lock together.
- Braiding: Hair is braided tightly, and over time, the braids can tighten and form into dreadlocks.
- Twisting: Small sections of hair are twisted repeatedly until they begin to coil and lock. This is often done with a comb or by hand.
- Palm Rolling: Once dreadlocks start to form, people often roll them between their palms to help them tighten and keep their shape.
It takes time and care for dreadlocks to mature and become solid. They need to be maintained to stay neat and healthy.
Dreadlocks Around the World
Dreadlocks have been worn by people in many cultures and religions throughout history. They are not just a modern hairstyle.
Ancient History of Dreads
Dreadlocks have a very long history.
- Ancient Egyptian mummies have been found with their hair still in dreadlocks. This shows that people wore them thousands of years ago.
- In ancient Greece, some sculptures from around 615 to 485 BC show people with locked hair.
- Ancient Spartan warriors were also sometimes shown with dreadlocks. This suggests they were a sign of strength or status.
- In India, Hindu holy men called sadhus often wear their hair in a traditional locked style called jaṭā. This is part of their religious practice.
Modern Dreadlocks
In more recent times, dreadlocks have become strongly linked with the Rastafarian religion.
- Rastafarianism started in Jamaica in the 1930s. For Rastafarians, dreadlocks are a symbol of their faith and a connection to nature. They represent a spiritual journey and a rejection of modern society's norms.
- Beyond religion, dreadlocks became popular in the 1970s and later as a fashion statement. They were worn by musicians, artists, and people who wanted to express their individuality.
- Today, people from all backgrounds wear dreadlocks for many reasons, including cultural pride, personal style, or spiritual beliefs.
Images for kids
-
Cree chief Pitikwahanapiwiyin with locked hair, 1885
-
Two sadhus (holy men) with their hair in traditional jaṭā style
-
An ancient Greek sculpture (from about 615–485 BC) wearing dreadlocks.
-
A Spartan officer shown with locked hair
-
Hippie dreadlocks decorated with beads
-
Fully matured dreadlocks that started from the comb twist method
-
Newly twisted dreadlocks after being unwound from Bantu knots; they will thicken as they lock.
See also
In Spanish: Rasta para niños
