Voodoo, also known as Vodou, is a spiritual and religious practice that originated in West Africa and evolved in the Caribbean, particularly Haiti, as a result of the transatlantic slave trade. It blends elements of African, indigenous, and Catholic beliefs, creating a rich, complex tradition centered around the worship of spirits known as lwa. Voodoo emphasizes the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds, with rituals involving music, dance, and offerings. Often misunderstood and misrepresented in popular culture, Voodoo is a vibrant, living tradition that plays a significant role in the cultural identity of its practitioners.