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Kwanzaa

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Kwanzaa is a holiday celebrated by many African-Americans, over seven days between 26 December and 1 January. Kwanzaa was invented by Mualana Karenga in 1966.

Each of the days symbolizes one of Seven Principles (Nguzo Saba):

  • Umoja (Unity),
  • Kuji-chagulia (Self-determination),
  • Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility),
  • Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics),
  • Nia (Purpose),
  • Kuumba (Creativity), and
  • Imani (Faith).

Its name derives from the Swahili phrase "matunda ya kwanza", meaning "firstfruits". An additional "a" was added to Swahili "kwanza" so that the word would have seven letters, one for each of the seven principles.

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