When did the djembe spread to Western culture?

• A. 1950s
• B. 1900s
• C. 1980s
• D. 1700s

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is how a traditional instrument crosses from one culture into another and when that first widespread exposure happens. The djembe began to appear in Western contexts in the 1950s, as ethnomusicologists documented West African drumming and musicians in the West started incorporating it into ensembles, classrooms, and early world-music performances. That initial introduction created the footholds for broader adoption in the 1960s and beyond, with drum circles and teaching materials helping it become common in Western schools and studios. Earlier dates wouldn’t reflect the first noticeable spread, and the 1980s, while important for later growth, comes after that initial access.