Rasta (Rastafarianism)

Rastafarianism, or Rastafari, is a spiritual movement that originated in Jamaica in the 1930s. It combines religion, social consciousness, and a connection to African roots, emphasizing African identity and liberation from oppression. Followers, called Rastafarians, often view Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia as a divine figure and advocate for peace, love, and unity. The movement promotes natural living, including the use of ital (natural) foods and dreadlocks. It also incorporates elements of Afrocentric philosophy and resistance to colonialism, fostering a sense of identity and community among its adherents.