Territory, language and memory of the Asurini do Xingu: a study of the historical-cultural trajectorie of an Amazonian indigenous peolple in the T. I. Koatinemo

Abstract

This project aims to continue the study about the occupation history of the territory comprising T.I Koatinemo by the Asurini do Xingu. Since 2009, with the Asurini collaboration we developed an archaeologically investigation on the ancient settlements occupied by this indigenous people at the T.I. Koatinemo - particularly along the creeks Piranhaquara and Ipiaçava and in the areas surrounding the villages Kwatinemu and Itaaka - and at the same time we have identified the archaeological potential of the middle River Xingu region. Continuing this research we intend to intensify the archaeological survey in the surrounding area of the Itaaka village and along the creek Lage - northern boundary of T.I. Koatinemo. From an interdisciplinary approach (archaeological, anthropological and linguistic) we will understand the relationship between territoriality, material culture, memory and identity among the Asurini the Xingu in order to understand how the different historical situations and the different interaction processes of the Asurini do Xingu with the surrounding society - from before its official contact with Funai in 1971 - has influenced in their historical and cultural trajectory and particular current situation. In addition, by identifying archaeological sites we aim to contribute to the construction of an indigenous long-standing history in this middle Xingu region. (AU)