article

The Uru-Chipaya Indians of Carangas

Journal de la Société des Americanistes de Paris, n.s.27 • Published In 1935 • Pages: HRAF ms: 1-223

By: Métraux, Alfred, Reynolds, Priscilla.

Abstract
This is a basic source on the ethnography and language of the Chipaya segment of the Uru-Chipaya ethnolinguistic group of Atahuallpa (formerly Carangas) province, Oruro department. The monograph focuses upon religion, material culture (including the subsistence economy), and language—in that order—with valuable but much briefer data on environment, population, settlement patterns, and social organization. Probably the best section is that on material culture. The data on religion consist largely of descriptions of rituals and ceremonies, with very little functional analysis. The treatment of social organization is minimal. Despite these drawbacks, Uru-Chipaya ethnography is of particular significance from a historical standpoint. The author demonstrates that the Chipaya have retained many ancient Andean culture traits. As a consequence, Chipaya culture provides a basis for a deeper understanding or interpretation of Inca ethnographic and archeological data. A good deal of comparative cultural material is presented concerning the Inca and the Aymara.
Subjects
Cultural identity and pride
Linguistic identification
Community structure
Inter-ethnic relations
Territorial hierarchy
General character of religion
Missions
Organized ceremonial
Status, role, and prestige
Prayers and sacrifices
Congregations
Sacred objects and places
Religious and educational structures
Music
Acculturation and culture contact
culture
Uru-Chipaya
HRAF PubDate
2014
Region
South America
Sub Region
Central Andes
Document Type
article
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Robert O. Lagacé ; 1966
Field Date
1930-1931
Coverage Date
1930-1931
Coverage Place
Oruro department, Bolivia
Notes
Alfred Métraux
Translation of: [Les Indiens Uro-Cipaya de Carangas]
Translated for the HRAF files by Priscilla Reynolds in 1966
Not translated for the files: pages 395-415 of volume 27, consisting of myths and texts; and pages 342-394 of volume 28, consisting of word list, native texts, and bibliography
LCCN
09000875
LCSH
Uru Indians