Why was loss of grazing land not only an economic loss for the Maasai?

Correct answer: Because it could also affect social prestige and identity

The direct answer is A: losing grazing land could also damage Maasai social prestige and identity. For Maasai pastoralists, land was not simply a place where animals ate. It supported a way of life, community relationships and the herd that represented status. Step by step: less grazing land can reduce herd size; a smaller herd can reduce food, exchange possibilities and wealth; reduced wealth can affect respect and social position. Since cattle were strongly connected with Maasai identity, losing the conditions needed to keep cattle could also weaken cultural identity. A is correct. B is wrong because loss of grazing land does not expand the sea. C is wrong because cattle were important, not unimportant. D is wrong because pasture was closely connected with society and culture. Memory cue: land loss can mean income loss plus identity loss.