Old Tradition

Learned this just the other day......

  Before independence, when the Portuguese were still very much present, there were local leaders called Regulos.  They were appointed by the government and not necessarily a leader for the people, more to help the Portuguese control the people.  Regardless, they were leaders and respected accordingly.  Actually, they were so esteemed that when they died an elaborate funeral service was held.  They were buried with belongings to accompany them on their journey after life.  Food and belongs were commonly put in the grave, but what I was shocked to learn is that it was also custom to bury a live virgin with the dead Regulo.   Eventually a Portuguese country administrator called for an end to the practice stating that to many useful citizens were being lost.  Seriously.