DREADLOCKS

It is believed that the first Rastafarian dreadlocks came from Kenya in 1953 when images of the independence struggle in Kenya displayed people wearing dreads. These images made their way to Jamaica through publications and other news sources.
During the Rastafari Movement, rastas grew and wore their hair in dreadlocks to dr...aw a distinction from the straight, thin hair of their oppressors. Dreads were also a way for them to accept personal beauty and the differences between Jamaicans and the white people. In addition, dreads symbolize the mane of the Lion of Judah and the Rasta rebellion against Babylon (the capitalistic, materialistic, and oppressive world).
For Rastas, the growing of dreadlocks is also a spiritual and mental journey that teaches patience. It is believed that it is patience that allows for the hair to grow naturally without the use of cutting, combing, or washing with anything except pure water.

Though many rastas have dreadlocks, not all do. It is not a requirement of the religion, nor is it limited to Rastafari. They are worn by people in a number of different cultures and religions, so dreads alone do not make one a Rasta. For the Rastas who do wear dreadlocks, it is a symbol of loyalty to the religion.