elder's first concern is marriage. This is because the Maasai are not allowed to marry before they become a junior elder. As the time of elderhood draws near, he pays great attention to his prospective father-in-law. He makes frequent visits to his would be in-laws bearing presents. He also has to be careful to show great respect to the senior elders who supervise the new generation of elders, since, should this respect fall short, he could be fined. Only after paying the fine of a heifer or a brew of honey beer will he be allowed to marry one of their daughters. Besides demanding dowries for their daughters, the senior elders want to make sure that the prospective husband can take care of their daughter. They believe that one who has more cattle and works hard, will always get them, they prefer someone with more cattle than someone with a few.
             A Maasai girl can be betrothed during infancy or even before. When the parents of a son see a newly wedded couple, they may give the young couple a bra
             ...