The Mocko Jumbie of the U.S. Virgin Islands; History and Antecedents

• Published in: African arts Vol. 32; no. 3; pp. 48 - 96
• Main Author: Nicholls, Robert W.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: African Studies Center, University of California, Los Angeles, USA UCLA James S. Coleman 01-10-1999; University of California; MIT Press Journals; University of California Los Angeles, African Studies Center; African Studies Center
• Subjects: Antecedents; Black culture; Cognitive problems, arts and sciences, folk traditions, folklore; Ethnology; Festivals; Folk festivals; History; Performances, theater, carnival; Popular culture; Central America; Virgin Islands; West Africa; Lesser West Indies; United States Virgin Islands; Virgin Islands-US; Origin; Carnival; Anthropomorphous mask; Creolization; Masquerade; Stilt; Historical approach; Creole; Cultural influence; Mask society; Dance costume; Masquerade feast
• ISSN: 0001-9933; 1937-2108
• DOI: 10.2307/3337709

Mocko Jumbie stilt-dancing, an established element of popular culture in the US Virgin Islands, traditionally had considerable social significance, with the Mocko Jumbie's appearance being regarded as a good omen. The Mocko Jumbie has retained its African heritage, with certain basic elements influencing the design of the costume. Many Mocko Jumbie practitioners have sought to maintain cultural authenticity over recent years by investigating the history of stilt dancing.