The spread of saints through the Maghreb is an Islamic phenomenon. Saints were seen as protectors, and saintly families were often given land so that they would stay and protect villages. Berber society is considered nominally egalitarian. What has often united Berber groups is resistance to an outside oppressor. It is interesting that this egalitarian is not applicable to women.
Women do most of the work and exercise none of the power.
Though often matrilineal, it is important to assert that the Berbers are a patriarchal society. Although in theory all males have a voice in Berber society, in reality, the assemblies are dominated by notables. They tend to have more influence on decisions on all levels than previously thought. Much of the material culture is made and used by women. From the third century onward, there have been four basic types of habitat used by Berber peoples.