In terms of origin, the Langi are a fusion of the Jie – plain Nilotes and the Luo. The Jie moved into Acholi land around the 16^th century but were defeated and driven off by the Acholi towards Lake Kyoga.  However, they had already learnt Luo language and they became the Lango.

Social organisation

Their social unit was a village settlement that consisted of 10 – 150 huts. Village settlements comprised of people having a common ancestry. Marriage was officially recognised after husband paid bride price on form of cattle and hoes.

Marriage of near relatives was forbidden and chastity was much valued. Inheritance and descent was patrilineal.

Believed in a vague being referred to as the Jok.  The Jok was Omni present and described as being like air, that is could not be seen but his presence was felt in whirl winds and pools of water.

Medicine men – Ajoka using magical powers could interpret the Jok’s will and cure members of society. They also revered departed ancestors i.e ancestor worship.

Political organisation.

The political unit was a village settlement. A village combined for both offence and defence particularly in inter – village raiding. A village said to have people of the same lineage and the leader of which was referred to as the Jago

Jago was responsible for organising and leading fighting, men warriors of the village. Any Jago who excelled in military and had influence over other Jagos was referred to as the Rwot.

A council of village elders formed an administrative and judicial body which assisted the Jago in settling disputes

Warlike – war was a source of wealth and prestige.  They raided the Madi, Acholi and Kumam for livestock, foodstuffs and women.

Economic organisation.

The village was an economic unit having its own fishing, grazing and water areas. Village land was held in common by the inhabitants.

Had a mixed economy that is livestock and crop cultivation. Crops grown – millet, sorghum, yams, potatoes, groundnuts, pumpkins and legumes.

Also kept cattle, sheep, goats and fowls.  Cattle for milk, ghee, hide and skins.

Cattle used for payments of fines that is as a form of currency. Their country had thick bushes and forests that is savannah grassland that favoured hunting for wild game.

They also practised Barter trade. They exchanged cattle and grains for iron implements with the Banyoro.