This practice was not just for fashion but served a practical purpose as well:
* Sun protection: The indigo dye acted as a natural sunscreen, protecting their skin from the harsh desert sun.
* Camouflage: The blue color blended with the surrounding landscape, providing some concealment from predators.
* Cultural identity: The blue dye also served as a symbol of their nomadic lifestyle and cultural identity.
So, the term "Blue Men of the Sahara" wasn't just a nickname, it reflected a real and significant aspect of the Berber camel caravan culture.