In this article I am illustrating the linguistic diversity of African Pygmy populations in order to better address their anthropological diversity and history. I am also introducing a new method, based on the analysis of specialized vocabulary, to reconstruct the substratum of some languages they speak. I show that Pygmy identity is not based on their languages, which have often been borrowed from neighboring non-Pygmy farmer communities with whom each Pygmy group is linked. Understanding the nature of this partnership, quite variable in history, is essential to addressing Pygmy languages, identity, and history. Finally, I show that only a multidisciplinary approach is likely to push forward the understanding of African Pygmy societies as genetic, archeological, anthropological, and ethnological evidence suggest.
How to translate text using browser tools
1 February 2012
Changing Language, Remaining Pygmy
Serge Bahuchet
ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

Human Biology
Vol. 84 • No. 1
February 2012
Vol. 84 • No. 1
February 2012
ARCHEOLOGY
BANTU
central Africa
CULTURAL DIVERSITY
ETHNOLOGY
farmers
Genetics