I have always had long natural hair but it is super thick which becomes a hassle at times.
What do you consider long hair?  Depending on the culture, what is considered long hair varies. 
I don't think it depends on your culture length in hair is just considered long, I am African American and my hair is in the middle of my back. 
There is a website called Black Girl with Long Hair that is focused on styling and hair care for black hair.  It might be of interest
When was this site originated and is the review good I would have to check it out it may be a style I would like on there. 
There is something called the natural hair movement that is dedicated to people of African descent to keep the natural hair texutre
Nature is very popular in our culture right now it is a chemical free way to keep our hair healthy and to resort back to our roots of naturalism. 
There is an entire industry focused on products to straighten hair.  I am sure it is not good for your hair in the long run