What is the history of the dreadlock?

The first known examples of the hairstyle date back to ancient Egypt, where dreadlocks appeared on Egyptian artifacts. Their dreadlocks were thought to be disgusting and frightening, hence the term ‘dread’ which was later reclaimed by the ‘Rasta’ community.

What do dreads mean spiritually?

Locs represent a devotion to purity, and since the locs are found around the head and face it acts as a constant spiritual reminder to its owner that they own force, wisdom, and are expected to generate goodness onto themselves and others. Shiva. In Hindu culture Shiva was said to have “Tajaa,” twisted locs of hair.

Who started wearing dreadlocks?

Historians have uncovered Roman accounts stating that the Celts wore their hair “like snakes” and that several Germanic tribes and Vikings were known to wear dreadlocks.

What’s the history of dreadlocks and black hair?

While the history itself is fascinating and worth a read, in light of recent pop culture events, we also think a quick refresher on all things locs is important to help clear up misconceptions and negative connotations. Read on for a look into the history of locs, from 2,500 BCE to today. Photo: REX Shutterstock.

Is there a connection to dreadlocks for spiritual reasons?

Thousands of years later, mummified bodies have been recovered with their locs still intact. “Dreadlocks can be traced to just about every civilization in history,” says Chimere Faulk, an Atlanta-based natural hair stylist and owner of Dr. Locs. “No matter the race, you will find a connection to having dreadlocks for spiritual reasons.”

Where did people in ancient Egypt wear dreadlocks?

Frescoes discovered on the Aegean island of Thera (modern Santorini, Greece) depict individuals with braided hair styled in long dreadlocks. In ancient Egypt, examples of Egyptians wearing locked hairstyles and wigs have appeared on bas-reliefs, statuary and other artifacts.

How are dreadlocks viewed in the mainstream media?

The way mainstream media perceives dreads when they appear on white versus Black folks. It’s upsetting how Giuliana Rancic equated Zendaya’s locs with smelling like weed and oil, but deemed Kylie Jenner’s locs as “edgy.” Spoiler alert: Every person with dreads is not a smoker who listens to Reggae music, contrary to popular (and foolish) belief.