Chibados (orquimbandas)[1] arethird-gender people, born male, who lived most often as women. They were found among the cultures of theNdongo and other parts of what is todayAngola. They were first described in the west by thePortuguese.
Chibados were involved as "spiritual arbiters in political and military decisions" and also performedburials.[2]Olfert Dapper described thechibados as shamans "who walk dressed like women."[3] Portuguese priests andJesuits described how chibados lived as women and were able to marry other men with no social sanctions. Instead, "such marriages were honored and even prized."[4]Chibados made up a separatecaste and elders referred to themselves as "Grandmother."[5]
Queen Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba had over fiftychibados in her court.[6] Thechibados were said to be used by Nzinga asconcubines.[3]
As the Portuguese gained more control in Africa, colonial laws introduced and increasedhomophobia.[7]