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Proud Nuwaubian Fez

Object Details

Description (Brief)
This red fabric fez was made by Hilmart in Morocco. It has a black tassel and printed graphic on the front with the texts “Proud Nuwaubian” and “United Nuwaubian Nation of Moors.” Nuwaubian teachings have inspired and influenced hip hop artists including Afrika Bambaataa, Doug E. Fresh, Erykah Badu, and Outkast. Bambaataa donated this fez to the Smithsonian in 2006.
Afrika Bambaata (born Kevin Donovan), an American DJ from the Bronx, was influential in the early development of hip hop and is regarded as the “Godfather” of hip hop culture. He has been instrumental in spreading hip hop music and culture around the world, as well as creating opportunities and helping to improve the lives of others in the hip hop community through his organization "Universal Zulu Nation." In 1990, Bambaataa made Life magazine's "Most Important Americans of the 20th Century" issue.
Location
Currently not on view
Data Source
National Museum of American History
maker
Hilmart
Physical Description
felt (overall material)
paper (overall material)
Measurements
overall: 4 3/4 in x 8 in; 12.065 cm x 20.32 cm
Object Name
hat

Featured In

  • Hip-Hop and Rap Across the Smithsonian
  • African American Music:African American Music
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