Abstract

OLIVETO, Guillermina. Chiriguanos: southern andes colonizing policy and the construction of a stereotype. Mem. am. [online]. 2010, n.18-1, pp.43-69. ISSN 1851-3751.

This paper analyzes how the were classified in the eastern border of Tarija within the context of a new colonial society. Southern Andes colonial documents present them as a threat, triggering tensions over the borders. Historiography has maintained this image while refraining from investigating into the reality hidden behind that depiction. The category came to condense a large sum of pejorative names thus creating a stereotype to justify policies of defense and conquest on the southeastern border. Deconstructing the category uncovers multiple, complex interethnic relations beyond such stereotype. This study case reveals how the Spaniards used group categorization because it proved functional to their interests, although the conflict encompassed a broader temporal and spatial frame.

Keywords : Chiriguano; stereotype; Tarija.