History of ole mas: The satirical side of Trinidad Carnival

Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival is one of the most vibrant and culturally significant festivals in the world. While modern Carnival is known for its spectacular costumes, pulsating soca music, and high-energy celebrations, at its heart lies an older, more traditional form of expression—ole mas. The history of ole mas reveals a deeply rooted tradition that serves as a medium for social and political commentary, often using humour, wit, and exaggerated portrayals to critique contemporary issues.

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Origins of ole mas

Ole mas, derived from the French term “masquerade”, has its roots in the 18th and 19th centuries when enslaved Africans in Trinidad combined their cultural traditions with European carnival festivities. Influenced by West African masquerades, French plantation balls, and Spanish and British colonial influences, ole mas became an avenue for the oppressed to mock the elite and voice societal grievances in a creative manner.

During slavery, the enslaved population was prohibited from participating in the elaborate masked balls of their European masters. However, after emancipation in 1834, freed Africans took to the streets in defiant celebration, utilising satire, parody, and symbolism to reclaim their space and express themselves openly. These processions, filled with exaggerated costumes, placards, and humorous performances, evolved into what is now known as ole mas.

The essence of satire in ole mas

Satire has always been the driving force behind ole mas. Participants, known as masqueraders, create characters that reflect political scandals, social issues, and everyday struggles. They use absurdity and over-the-top performances to ridicule figures of authority and highlight injustices. Often, they carry placards with witty slogans and rhymes that add an extra layer of humour and critique.

In its purest form, ole mas embodies the true spirit of Carnival—rebellion, creativity, and storytelling. Even today, in some traditional J’ouvert and street performances, masqueraders use ole mas to comment on current events, poking fun at politicians, corrupt officials, and social trends.

Iconic ole mas characters

Several characters have stood the test of time, each bringing its own unique flair to the satirical tradition of ole mas. These figures, inspired by folklore, history, and societal archetypes, continue to be celebrated as integral parts of Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural identity.

Fancy Indian

The Fancy Indian character draws inspiration from Native American tribal attire, adorned with elaborate feathered headdresses, beads, and colourful fabrics. Historically, this portrayal stems from interactions between Indigenous peoples and Africans in the Caribbean. The Fancy Indian is known for its majestic appearance and rhythmic dances, representing both the nobility and resilience of Indigenous heritage.

Tracing the origins of Trinidad Carnival: History and culture unveiled. — *Fancy Indian, Carnival, Port-of-Spain, 2014.*

Sailor Mas

Originating from the early 20th century, Sailor Mas emerged as a playful satire of British and American naval officers stationed in Trinidad. With distinct uniforms, white hats, and exaggerated sailor dance moves like the “Crab Walk” and “Belly Bounce”, Sailor Mas became a humorous yet stylish representation of military culture. Variants include the King Sailor, Free French Sailor, and Fireman Sailor, each adding unique twists to the character.

Pierrot Grenade

A master of words and wit, the Pierrot Grenade is one of the most intellectual characters of Ole Mas. This character, derived from the 19th-century Pierrot, is known for reciting elaborate speeches filled with long, complex words to amuse and confuse the audience. Dressed in a colourful diamond-patterned costume with a hat adorned with bells, the Pierrot Grenade entertains crowds with his cleverness and linguistic prowess.

Blue Devils

Hailing from the hills of Paramin, the Blue Devils are among the most visually striking characters of ole mas. Painted in eerie blue hues with flaming torches and wild shrieks, these masqueraders embody chaos and fear. They engage in theatrical performances, where they chase spectators for money while mimicking demonic and supernatural beings from folklore. Their presence adds a thrilling and mischievous element to Carnival.

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Jab Jab

A character deeply rooted in African tradition, the Jab Jab is a devil-like figure covered in oil, mud, or molasses. Often adorned with chains and horns, the Jab Jab embodies the spirit of rebellion and the rejection of societal norms. The Jab Jab’s performance is characterised by wild dancing, provocative gestures, and a willingness to engage with the audience in a confrontational manner.

The Jab Jab can also be seen as a commentary on the exploitation and suffering endured by enslaved Africans, with the chains representing the bonds of slavery and the oil or mud representing the arduous labour in the sugarcane fields.

Jab Molassie

A variation of the Jab Jab, the Jab Molassie is specifically associated with the molasses used in sugar production. This character, often covered in black molasses and adorned with chains, represents the harsh realities of slavery and the exploitation of labour in the sugar industry. The Jab Molassie’s performance is often more somber and reflective than that of the Jab Jab, serving as a reminder of the historical injustices that shaped Trinidadian society.

Dame Lorraine

A relic of French colonial times, Dame Lorraine is a humorous yet pointed critique of European aristocracy. This character is typically portrayed by men dressed in exaggeratedly padded gowns, with oversized busts and bottoms, mocking the elite plantation women of the 18th century. Dame Lorraine performances are filled with comedic, flirtatious gestures, poking fun at the lavishness and excesses of the ruling class.

Carnival's duality: Traditional mas and modern mas explained. — *Fancy Sailor and Dame Lorraine.*

Moko Jumbies

Rooted in West African tradition, the towering Moko Jumbies walk on stilts, symbolising ancestral spirits and protection. They are believed to have the power to see evil from afar and ward off misfortune. Their graceful movements and ethereal presence make them a majestic and highly respected element of ole mas, bridging the past with the present.

The evolution of ole mas in modern Carnival

While traditional ole mas has diminished in mainstream Carnival, it still survives in niche spaces such as J’ouvert and community-based street performances. Contemporary masqueraders blend old and new, incorporating elements of modern satire while preserving historical characters.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in ole mas as cultural advocates push for its revival. Competitions and showcases dedicated to traditional mas characters ensure that these figures remain relevant and celebrated. Artists and designers are also reimagining classic ole mas costumes, integrating new materials and technologies while maintaining the essence of satire and social commentary.

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Preserving the legacy of ole mas

Ole mas is more than just an element of Trinidad Carnival; it is a living, breathing form of resistance, storytelling, and cultural expression. As globalisation and commercialisation continue to shape modern Carnival, it is crucial to preserve the traditions that define its origins.

Educational initiatives, workshops, and digital archiving efforts play an essential role in keeping ole mas alive. By passing down knowledge of these characters and their significance, Trinidad and Tobago can ensure that future generations understand and appreciate the historical depth of their Carnival heritage.

The heart of Carnival’s conscience

The history of ole mas is a testament to the enduring power of satire, social commentary, and cultural expression. From its humble beginnings in the aftermath of Emancipation to its current status as a vibrant and evolving art form, ole mas has consistently served as a critical voice within Trinidadian society. The iconic characters of ole mas, each with their own unique history and satirical target, continue to captivate and challenge audiences, reminding them of the importance of critical thinking, social justice, and cultural pride.

As Trinidad Carnival continues to evolve, ole mas remains a vital component, ensuring that the celebrations retain their historical depth, social relevance, and enduring power to provoke thought and inspire change. The spirit of ole mas is the conscience of Carnival, holding a mirror to society and reminding us of the power of laughter and satire to challenge the status quo. Its continued relevance in the digital age ensures that its potent message will continue to resonate with generations to come.

By understanding and appreciating the history of ole mas, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and contradictions of Trinidadian society, and we are better equipped to engage with the ongoing struggle for social justice and cultural liberation. Ole mas is not just a performance; it is a living history, a powerful form of resistance, and a celebration of the enduring spirit of the Trinidadian people.

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