When Europeans invaded Africa for their selfish gains and general curiosity they encountered a people who contrary to popular belief were well fed in some parts. Their body shapes were somewhat different to what the explorers imagined. Traditional European women shapes came with little to no curves in comparison. Their curves were achieved by slipping into tight breath taking corsets that pushed the breasts upwards under the chin and squeezed the waist in. This gave the impression that the ladies who wore this style of dress had a tiny waist with womanly curves.
Sara Baartman hailed from the Khoi Khoi tribe in what is currently called South Africa. She was taken from Africa and paraded around Europe during the 19th century as part of a freak show. She was referred to as the Hottentot Venus. Her people were referenced with the name Hottentot however the correct name is Khoi Khoi. Venus completed her show piece show name in reference to greek goddess of love. The crowds were in awe of her large derriere and gawped at her genitalia. When she passed away a revered European scientist dissected her body and put her private parts along with various body parts on show. In 2002 her remains were given to South Africa and given a proper burial.
Fast forward to 2011. Women of African descent are dotted all over the globe. Come in all different shapes and sizes. The general consensus is that to be a Black woman means you automatically have curves. We get ridiculed for having a big bum or big boobs. Yet when we are lacking in these things we are ridiculed. I have heard so many non Black folk complain about Beyonce's shape yet get happy for Jennifer Lopez. I never thought of Jennifer having much of a bum to get hyped up about to be honest. She just had an "acceptable" shape.
