Lineage (anthropology)

In anthropology, a lineage is a unilineal descent group that traces its ancestry to a demonstrably shared ancestor, known as the apical ancestor. Lineages are formed through relationships traced either exclusively through the maternal line (matrilineage), paternal line (patrilineage), and occasionally some combination of both (ambilineal). The cultural significance of matrilineal or patrilineal descent varies greatly, shaping social structures, inheritance patterns, and even rituals across societies.

Definition and Characteristics

A lineage is a descent group characterized by unilineal descent. This means that lineage membership is determined by tracing ancestry through a single line, either maternal or paternal. This differentiates lineages from other descent groups like clans, which may have a shared ancestor but lack the demonstrably documented or traditionally accepted apical ancestor from whom all members descend.

Types of Lineage

There are three forms of lineage, Matrilineage, Patrilineage, and Ambilineal.

Matrilineage

In Matrilineage, descent is traced exclusively through the maternal line. Children inherit lineage membership from their mother, and the lineage consists of a mother, her children, and her children's children who are all matrilineally related. The Minangkabau people of Indonesia, being a Jew in the Jewish religion, and the Khasi people of India are well-known examples of societies with prominent matrilineal structures.

Patrilineage

In Patrilineage, descent is traced exclusively through the paternal line. Children inherit lineage membership from their father, and the lineage consists of a father, his children, and his children's children who are all patrilineally related. Patrilineages are more common globally, with examples found in many cultures.

Ambilineal

In Ambilineal lineage, descent is traced through mixing of both the maternal and/or paternal line, usually meaning that the individuals choose whether to affiliate with their mother or father's group, or both. Ambilineal lineages are relatively rare in more under-developed societies, such as South East Asian areas, and very common in modernized societies, such as the United States.

Further reading

• Kuper, Adam (1982). "Lineage Theory: A Critical Retrospect". Annual Review of Anthropology. 11: 71–95. doi:10.1146/annurev.an.11.100182.000443. JSTOR 2155776.