ABSTRACT
This chapter contributes towards a better understanding of masculinity and particularly white masculine identities within an historical context. Particular attention is given to the way male members of the subculture constructed, sustained and practised their masculinity. The chapter argues that Ducktail masculinity was not static or homogeneous but was rather multifarious, embracing characteristics such as image, territoriality, loyalty, pugnacity, competitiveness, virility and homophobia. This sets the context for an exploration of the relationship of conformity, conflict and control that emerged between Ducktail masculinity and other more accepted and dominant masculinities. Virtually all Ducktails were white. At times, their racial consciousness intersected with their masculinity in the form of vicious racist assaults carried out on members of the black, coloured and Indian communities. A discussion of masculinity–and particularly heterosexuality–should include one of femininity as the two gender roles inform one another. It is important to unravel the power relations which emerged between males and females.
