Nations

The 5th graders at my school each study a country of Africa.  I thought it would be fun to join them in their studies and learn more about Madagascar.  My first project is the ethnic groups of Madagascar.  I found some really cool info.  Each group has it's own name and meaning. Check it out:

Merina (Imerina)  Elevated People, deriving from the fact that they lived on the plateau. 

Betsimisaraka (The Inseparable Multitude), who live generally in the east. 

Betsileo (The Invincible Multitude), who inhabit the plateau around Fianarantsoa. 

Tsimihety (Those Who Do Not Cut Their Hair), 

Sakalava (People of the Long Valley), 

Antandroy (People of the Thorn Bush), 

Tanala (People of the Forest), 

Antaimoro (People of the Banks)

Bara (a name of uncertain origin). 

Antanosy (People of the Island),

Antaifasy (People of the Sand)

Sihanaka (People of the Lake)

Antakarana (People of the Rocks)

Betanimena (People of the Red Soil), who are now largely absorbed by the Merin

Bezanozano (Those with Many-Braided Hair)

Mahafaly (Those Who Make Taboos)

I also found this really cool blog with pictures of each of the groups.  Make sure to translate it when you get there.