Hair braiding is an ancient art - 17. Jan. 2006 - 08:32 Hair braiding is an ancient art, handed down from generation to generation in Africa. The origins of the art form can be traced back to Egypt as far as 3500 BCE. In many West African countries, hair braiding developed into complex patterns signaling one's social status, age group and village affiliation. Certain elaborate hair treatments were reserved for ceremonial occasions such as weddings. read more