Like many African tribes, Senegal's main indigenous group, the Wolof, has a highly stratified society wherein status is determined by birth. Griots are the lowest of the castes but are highly respected, as they are in charge of passing on the oral traditions and are usually the only ones who can recite a family or village history. Slaves occupied the lowest rung of the social ladder, and although slavery is now long gone, many descendants of former slaves still work as tenant farmers for the masters of old. Few people would think of making a big decision without consulting their town's Grand Marabout. French is the official language and Wolof the principal African tongue.
Arabic expressions are also widely used and can come in handy for travellers.
The food in Senegal is generally very good. Senegalese beer is also good. Gazelle and Flag are popular brands. Today's pop stars base their music on traditional sounds and rhythms and have become some of the most famous in Africa. Foremost amongst today's stars is Youssou N'dour, who combines traditional mbalax music and Western pop, rock and soul and has an international following.