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Santeria is a religious practice which is found throughout the Caribbean, particularly in Cuba. It is one of several Caribbean religions blending Roman Catholic beliefs with traditional African practices. Like many other religions which have their origins in slavery, Santeria is mysterious to those who do not practice it, and the culture which surrounds it is very closed to outsiders.
Santeria integrates beliefs held by the Yoruba and Bantu people of Nigeria, Senegal, and the Guinea Coast. These peoples were brought to the Caribbean as slaves and encouraged to convert to Catholicism so that they could be saved. In an attempt to retain their cultural heritage, Santeria arose. Followers of Santeria are known as Lukumi, which means friend, or Aborisha, which means worshiper of the Orisha.
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