ABSTRACT
Before dealing with the particular forms of economic activity a few considerations with reference to some general traits may be appropriate. They can be compressed into the following statements. In a society mostly governed by single clans or by associated sections of clans, the acquisition of money is superfluous. The earning of money only becomes important at a later stage when the clans break up. This is a consequence partly because of the political power exercised by the ruling patriarchal families, and partly because of the increase in the number and influence of detribalized prisoners- of-war. Among some tribes, however, as among the Dama, there is an intermediary in the person of a headman, or other prominent member of the community. He receives and distributes all supplies.
