The History of Moko Jumbies in the Virgin Islands

Moko Jumbies are a captivating and integral part of the cultural fabric of the Virgin Islands and other parts of the Caribbean. These vibrant, towering figures are known for their presence at festivals and cultural events, performing impressive dances atop long stilts. Their roots, however, run deep into the history and traditions of West Africa, and their journey across the Atlantic is intertwined with the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade, colonialism, and cultural resilience in the Caribbean. In the Virgin Islands, particularly, the Moko Jumbie tradition has evolved and endured, symbolizing both the survival of African spiritual practices and the vibrant identity of the Caribbean people.

Origins of Moko Jumbies in Africa

The term “Moko” originates from West African spiritual and religious traditions. In many West African cultures, “Moko” was considered a god or spirit figure, often associated with protection and healing. In the African context, stilt-walking was a significant part of rituals and ceremonies, and the elevated height of the dancer symbolized the ability to rise above adversity, to see evil before it could arrive, and to protect the community. Moko Jumbies were thus revered figures, playing an important role in spiritual practices and village life, often believed to be intermediaries between the human world and the spirit world.

The word “Jumbie,” on the other hand, comes from the Caribbean vernacular, referring to a spirit or ghost. In the context of the Caribbean, particularly in the Virgin Islands, the combination of these two elements—Moko, the protective deity, and Jumbie, the spirit—gives us the “Moko Jumbie,” a protective and watchful spirit that walks high above the ground.

Mako Jumbies

The Transatlantic Slave Trade and the Caribbean

The tradition of Moko Jumbies in the Virgin Islands is closely linked to the transatlantic slave trade, which forcibly brought millions of Africans to the Caribbean to work on plantations. As slaves were taken from West Africa to the islands, they brought with them their beliefs, customs, and traditions. However, enslaved Africans faced harsh conditions, forced labor, and the systematic suppression of their cultural practices by European colonizers, especially in the sugar-producing islands like the Virgin Islands, which were under Danish control from the 17th century.

In spite of these oppressive conditions, African traditions survived, albeit in altered or disguised forms. This phenomenon is often referred to as “cultural retention,” where enslaved Africans found ways to preserve their heritage despite the restrictions imposed on them. The Moko Jumbie tradition is one such example of cultural retention in the Caribbean. Even though the performance and practice of African religious rites were often prohibited, slaves were able to keep these practices alive through dance, music, and storytelling.

In this context, Moko Jumbies became a symbol of resilience, endurance, and protection for the African community in the Virgin Islands and other parts of the Caribbean. They also became a part of the carnival celebrations, which originally began as a time of festivities before Lent but evolved into a broader celebration of freedom, identity, and community in the post-emancipation period.

The Evolution of Moko Jumbies in the Virgin Islands

As time went on, the Moko Jumbie tradition evolved and became an integral part of the Virgin Islands’ cultural landscape. Over the centuries, the original African religious and spiritual meanings behind Moko Jumbies became intertwined with Caribbean Carnival culture and local interpretations of folklore and spirituality. Today, Moko Jumbies are most commonly associated with the joyous and colorful Carnival celebrations that take place annually throughout the Caribbean.

In the Virgin Islands, particularly in the U.S. Virgin Islands of St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John, Moko Jumbies are a common sight during Carnival parades. These stilt-walkers, often dressed in brightly colored costumes, move through the streets, dancing to the infectious rhythms of steel pan music and soca. Their performances are as much about artistry and entertainment as they are about continuing a long-standing cultural tradition.

One of the most significant developments in the modern history of Moko Jumbies in the Virgin Islands is the way this tradition has been passed down through generations. Schools and community groups teach young people the art of stilt-walking, ensuring that the tradition continues. The skill of walking on stilts is not an easy one to master, but it is an important rite of passage for many young performers who want to connect with their heritage and participate in Carnival.

Symbolism and Significance of Moko Jumbies Today

The modern-day Moko Jumbie continues to be a powerful symbol of the Caribbean’s history, culture, and identity. While the specific spiritual meanings associated with Moko Jumbies may not be as widely understood today, their presence remains significant.

At their core, Moko Jumbies represent protection and foresight. In the original African tradition, the height of the Moko Jumbie allowed it to see dangers coming from far away, serving as a guardian for the village. This idea of protection is still important in the Caribbean, where Moko Jumbies are seen as protectors of the community. During Carnival, their towering presence symbolizes a link between the earthly and the spiritual, the past and the present.

The vibrant costumes of Moko Jumbies, often adorned with bright colors, feathers, and masks, add to their symbolic significance. The colors represent the vibrancy and resilience of Caribbean culture, while the masks and headpieces can be seen as a link to the spirit world or as a way of embodying different characters in Caribbean folklore.

In addition to their symbolic meanings, Moko Jumbies are also a celebration of survival and creativity. They are a reminder of the enduring legacy of African culture in the Caribbean and of the ways in which enslaved Africans were able to preserve their traditions despite the immense challenges they faced. Moko Jumbies also represent the spirit of Carnival itself—a time of celebration, joy, and defiance.

Mako Jumbies at Carnival

Moko Jumbies and Cultural Heritage

In recent decades, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Virgin Islands. Moko Jumbies have become an important part of this movement. Organizations and cultural groups have worked to teach younger generations about the history and significance of Moko Jumbies, ensuring that this tradition continues to thrive.

Notably, the art of stilt-walking has gained recognition beyond the Caribbean. Moko Jumbie performers from the Virgin Islands have traveled to other parts of the world to showcase their skills and share their culture. This has helped to raise awareness of the cultural significance of Moko Jumbies and to promote the rich heritage of the Virgin Islands on the global stage.

In conclusion, the history of Moko Jumbies in the Virgin Islands is a story of cultural resilience, adaptation, and celebration. From their origins in West Africa to their central role in Caribbean Carnival, Moko Jumbies continue to be a symbol of protection, foresight, and survival. As they dance through the streets on towering stilts, they carry with them centuries of history and the spirit of the people who have kept this tradition alive. Today, Moko Jumbies are not only an essential part of the Virgin Islands’ cultural identity but also a vibrant expression of the enduring legacy of African culture in the Caribbean.