Bezanozano in Madagascar
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| People Name: | Bezanozano |
| Country: | Madagascar |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 251,000 |
| World Population: | 251,000 |
| Primary Language: | Malagasy, Merina |
| Primary Religion: | Ethnic Religions |
| Christian Adherents: | 30.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 15.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Online Audio NT: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Malagasy |
| Affinity Bloc: | Malay Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Bezanozano are a people group of Madagascar, inhabiting a strip of forest land located between the eastern part of the Merina kingdom and coastal region occupied by Southern Betsimisarakas, along the Mangoro heights.
Bezanozano traditions have preserved the memory of a king named Andriamalazabe who reigned in the second half of the Seventeenth century and who was the successor to Ranantoana. Since the end of the Eighteenth century, the Bezanozano kingdom had been forced to recognize the Merino king's suzerainty Andrianampoinimerina. This dependence did not cease until the end of the Merino monarchy. The number of Bezanozano is approximated at 150,000 people.
Where Are they Located?
The main location of the Bezanozano is the city of Moramanga, although the majority of current residents are from other regions of the island, especially Imerina.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Bezanozano language seems be intermediate between that of the Merino and dialects of the Betsimisaraka neighborhood. It is however practiced less and less, at least where the Merino language is used.