Let's Go To Togo! Trivia Quiz

Answer:

Togo is a small country in West Africa bordered by Ghana to the west, Benin to the east and Burkina Faso to the north. Its capital is Lomé, which is the country's largest city and a crucial port location. The city was founded by native people in the 1700's then, along with the rest of the country, was under rule by various countries such as Germany and France. It achieved its independence in 1960.

Togo was under French rule for almost 45 years and its national language remains French. However, there are a multitude of languages spoken in the country. While estimates vary slightly, Togo is home to at least 37 tribal ethnic groups and each of these has their own native language. The country's ethnic groups are generally divided between the more developed southern coastal region and the more diverse northern regions. Making up the largest tribe at 22%, is the Ewes who live in the southern area. The Kabye are located mainly in the north and account for around 14% of the population and have historically dominated Togolese politics and military.

The cuisine of Togo highlights the historical background of the country and is a mix of French, German, and Africa flavors. For proteins, fish is a common dish as the country is so close to the nearby gulf. Goat and "bushmeat" (a large rat) are also eaten locally. Side dishes include many vegetables such as corn, yams, and cassava. Tropical fruits are also included. The Togo meals also usually feature a sauce made with spices, vegetables, and peanuts. Tchoukouto is a home-brewed beer made from sorghum and sometimes millet and is central to the social life.

The Togo culture is steeped in tradition. Family life includes respect for elders and a strong extended family network where multiple generations live together or in close proximity. Marriage is a family event usually started with a symbolic dowry from the groom's family to the bride's family. Women, though having attained legal equality, usually remain unequal in most walks of life. They are usually doing the child rearing and domestic work while men are in the labor force and government work.

The music scene of the country features a great variety of percussion-led dance music. Drums are used extensively throughout the nation to celebrate special occasions and festivals. Some of the Togolese dances are the adewu (performed by hunters), the tchebe (the stilt dance), and various war dances. Like many countries in Africa, football (soccer) is the most popular sport but boxing is also favored and one of the best boxers from the 1990s called Togo home. The Togolese Olympic Committee was recognized by the International Olympic Committee in 1963.

Clothing in Togo is a vibrant blend of traditional West African styles and modern fashion, featuring bright colors, intricate patterns, and a variety of fabrics. While Western-style apparel like jeans and t-shirts are common, especially in urban areas, traditional attire holds significant cultural importance for ceremonies and celebrations. These can include colorful skirts, tunics, and drawstring pants.

One of the largest voodoo markets in the world can be found in Togo. The Akodessawa Fetish Market is found in the capital and features things like monkey heads, skulls, dead birds, crocodiles, skins and other products of dead animals. Voodoo is an official religion in Togo and a significant portion of the population practices the religion.