Aimak is a generic name for "tribal peoples" and their roots probably date back to the Mongol conquerors in the 13th century. Once a nomadic people, due to cycles of severe drought and warfare, the Aimaks were forced into a semi-nomadic lifestyle, travelling seasonally to herd dying herds and the rest of the time farming or carpet weaving in their mud-brick villages. Although the Aimaks have their own languages, few seem to speak them. Most speak the trade language of their country of residence. Most live in Turkmenistan, Afghanistan or Iran, but there are small populations of Aimaks in Tajikistan and Pakistan.
The food and dress are probably similar to that of neighbouring peoples. The staple food eaten at every meal is thick wholemeal bread baked in earthen ovens. Rice, chickpeas, potatoes and vegetables from the summer bed complement chicken, eggs or lamb (for guests or holidays). Doug, a drink made of yoghurt, salt, pepper and water, is also part of their diet.
Women brighten up a dull life by wearing bright clothes embroidered with sparkling sequins over white or coloured trousers. Outside the home, women wear a dark veil covering their head to toe. Men can be seen wearing turbans or round hats with rough cloaks thrown over their shoulders. Based on clan and extended family, the aimak is male-headed and its descent is traced back to the male line. Nevertheless, Aimak women enjoy unusual privileges compared to other rural Afghan peoples in that they meet with men and speak freely, even in the presence of outsiders.
Marriage is the most important event in the life of an aimak, celebrated in his honour and accompanied by dancing to the rhythms of flat drums. Traditionally, the union is concluded in early childhood. A girl marries at the age of 13-14, usually to a blood relative a little older, 16-20 years old, or as a second wife to a man much older than 40 years old. Traditionally, the bride moves into her husband's family home immediately after the wedding rites. However, there are rare cases where the groom moves into the home of his future relative for two or more years before the marriage ceremony takes place.
Aimak tribal customs remain stronger than any form of nationalism, partly due to their long-standing independence and geographical distance from central authority. Tribal laws, entrusted to village chiefs, usually override state authority and even some Islamic norms.
