Discord Between Hutus and Tutsis

• When the people of Ruanda (now called Rwanda) and the people of Urundi (now called Burundi) gained independence in 1962, the Tutsis were generally wealthier than the Hutu majority. Their wealth was based in part on the fact that they raised cattle while Hutus were often agricultural workers. Class conflict resulted in a civil war between the two tribes in Rwanda in 1994.
  
  

Christian and Traditional Beliefs

• In addition to their Christian beliefs, most Hutu believe in a god named Imaana, who possessed many of the same characteristics of humans. They believe that Imaana was good-intentioned but aloof from the average person. They believe Abazima consists of spirits of their ancestors. These spirits could be very mean and bring bad luck to the living people. They could be contacted through fortune tellers. Female Hutus are usually homemakers but also work in farming and harvesting of crops. Male Hutus are usually responsible for raising livestock and clearing fields.
  
  When the Tutsis migrated to the regions that now are ruled by Burundi and Rwanda, they adopted many of the same values, beliefs and customs practiced by the Hutus. Generally, both tribes are composed of members who practice Christianity along with each tribe's individual traditional religious beliefs
  
  

Hutu Folklore

• The Hutu have a variety of legends and folktales. One popular folk hero is named Samadari. Stories about Samadari describe him as a man who frequently broke rules that everyone else had to follow. He often criticized the rich and powerful and insulted wealthy cattle owners. This type of folklore contributes to the long-standing resentment between the Hutu and the Tutsi people.
  
  

Hutu Ceremonies

• Hutu usually celebrate Christian holidays. During many wedding ceremonies, brides are covered with herbs and milk to ensure purity of their bodies. Funeral ceremonies include prayers, speeches and additional local rituals take place.
  
  

Tutsi Folklore

• Many Tutsi believe they are descendants of a mythical king named Gihanga. Folklore includes the story of Sebgugugu, a poor man who was helped by God in performing miracles such as providing food. Ultimately, due to greed, Sebgugugu lost everything in the end. Tutsi people often believe in the same god that Hutus believe in named Imaana, and the same spirits named Abazima.
  
  

Tutsi Ceremonies

• Tutsis often celebrated traditional holidayswith dancing and sacred drumming, although for the most part this tradition has disappeared. Seven days after the birth of a child, Tutsis hold a naming ceremony. Marriages are often arranged between parents and can include payment of money or property to the bride's family. Tutsis are expected to act with dignity at all times, and demonstrations of emotions in public are discouraged.