mittekohased

Mittekohased is a subgroup of the Livonian people, a traditional ethnic group living in the region of Livonia in north-central Latvia and southwestern Estonia. The term "mittekohased" refers to those Livonians who traditionally did not reside in the settlements, instead they lived in isolation in the surrounding forests and mountains.

Historically, the mittekohased lived in the forests of the Saaremaa, Hiiumaa, and Väinameri islands as well as in the mountainous regions of the Harjumaa and Läänemaa counties. This lifestyle allowed them to maintain a high degree of autonomy and independence from the rest of society. The mittekohased were known to be skilled hunters and gatherers, and were also engaged in small-scale agriculture.

Social status and kinship played an important role within the mittekohased community. They were organized into tightly knit groups based on family ties, with each group led by an elder. This social structure was reinforced by a complex network of customary laws and traditions. The mittekohased were also known to have a strong spiritual connection with nature, which was reflected in their animist beliefs.

Despite their historical significance, the mittekohased culture has been subject to various periods of decline and assimilation. Many of their traditional practices and customs have been lost over time due to urbanization and the incorporation of modern ways of life. Additionally, the independence of the mittekohased from the rest of society has made it challenging to document their culture and history. Today, efforts are being made to preserve and study the remaining elements of the mittekohased culture.