Dreadlocks is a term used to describe hair that has been allowed to matte and form into cylindrical, rope-like extensions.  What's curious about the term "dreadlocks" is that it has not traditionally been used to descript the hair style to which it is attributed.  It wasn't until the mid-1900’s that dreadlocks acquired its popular and often controversial name.  

Dreadlocks is a term used to describe hair that has been allowed to matte and form into cylindrical, rope-like extensions.  What's curious about the term "dreadlocks" is that it has not traditionally been used to descript the hair style to which it is attributed.  It wasn't until the mid-1900’s that dreadlocks acquired its popular and often controversial name.  

Historically, religious leaders in Judaism, Christianity, Islam and Hinduism have been known to wear dreadlocks.  For example James the Just, the first bishop of Jerusalem and "brother of Jesus," was believed to have worn dreadlocks down to his ankles.  The Nazarites, Sadhus, Dervishes and Coptic Monks reportedly wore dreadlocks as well. 

In the late 1970’s Reggae artists such as Bob Marley helped launch the popular introduction of dreadlocks.  Following the anti-establisment sentiments of their parents during the 1960’s, Marley and his music attracted a new generation of young Blacks and leftist Whites who found hope, inspiration and motivation to unite against oppression, racism and cultural misunderstanding. 

From the oldest desert on the planet which would arguably then constitute the oldest culture, to the Sudan up to Egypt to the east coast of Africa the style of locking hair is very well documented. It denotes royalty and locked hair has been a symbol of a highly spiritual person who is trying to come closer to God(s).

OPENS IN A NEW WINDOW Hair has often been used as a symbol of identity - never more so than with dreadlocks. It's more than just a style; it's an attitude, a way of life, inspiring passion and disapproval in equal measure. So why is it more popular than ever, asks Hannah Pool