The Ras Tafari Movement - its Genesis and Functions

Abstract

This article is an early analysis of the then nascent Ras Tafari movement. The movement is described as both religious and political. A short historical overview of the movement's development is presented along with a brief biography of Marcus Garvey, its most important figure. It also summarizes early Rastafari ideas related with emigration to Africa. The emergence of Rastafarian ideas is explained using a psychological approach to social movements; Rastafarianism is suggested to be a manifestation of protest against the living conditions in Jamaica.