Gola PeopleThe distinction between women and men in Gola land has existed for years in this society. In times past, it was not uncommon for individuals of the tribe to exchange women with other groups and regional powers to maintain peace and as a trade for protection. This did not necessarily display a lack of care or disrespect for women, but instead placed a sense of value in them. As the tribe transitioned into more modern times, a different divide formed in terms of gender roles. This has obviously changed with the intertwining of many linguistic and ethnic groups over centuries. The current president is a display of this. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, of partial Gola descent, is one of the only female presidents in the world.
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Many of the Gola people earn their living through traditional crafts and agricultural work. Crafts include blacksmithing, carving, and weaving. Many of the Gola artists that carve are sought after because of their skill and ability to make masks. Many groups in surrounding areas and tribes who have mask-involving rituals seek the Gola carvers to make their masks. Additionally, Gola weavers are highly sought after to make traditional garments and ceremonial gowns. These specialized tasks have remained in this area because of their uniqueness and the passage of skills to the youth.
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