Symbols of Traditional Rulers’ Authority Basic 1 History Lesson Note

What are Symbols of Authority?

• Symbols are special items that show power
• Traditional rulers have symbols to show they are kings
• When people see these symbols, they know the person is a ruler

Symbols of Traditional Rulers

1. Crown (Ade)
2. 
   1. Worn on the head
   2. Made of beads or velvet
   3. Only the Oba can wear it
   4. Shows he is the king
3. Staff (Opa)

1. A special walking stick
2. Made of wood or metal
3. Decorated with beads
4. Shows authority

1. Horsetail (Irukere)

1. Made from horse’s tail
2. Used like a fan
3. Shows royal power

1. Royal Beads
2. 
   1. Worn around the neck and wrists
   2. Made of special beads
   3. Shows royal blood
3. Special Robes
   1. Beautiful traditional clothes
   2. Made of expensive materials
   3. Only rulers wear them

Materials Used to Make Symbols

• Beads
• Wood
• Metal (bronze, gold)
• Leather
• Velvet cloth
• Horse tail

Why These Symbols are Important to History

• They show our tradition
• They have been used for many years
• They tell us about our past
• They make us remember our culture
• They teach us to respect our leaders

MULTIPLE CHOICE EXERCISE 

1. Symbols show the ruler’s _____.

1. a) power
2. b) food
3. c) toys

1. A crown is worn on the _____.

1. a) feet
2. b) head
3. c) hand

1. Irukere is made from _____.

1. a) paper
2. b) horse’s tail
3. c) water

1. A staff is a special _____.

1. a) walking stick
2. b) book
3. c) food

1. Only the _____ can wear the royal crown.
   

1. a) children
2. b) Oba
3. c) everyone

HOMEWORK 

1. Draw a crown and staff.
2. Name 3 symbols of traditional rulers.
3. Ask: What is Irukere?
4. Write: Symbols show power.