Tapayuna people
Ethnic group in Brazil
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Tapayuna (autonym: Kajkwakratxi), also known as Tapayúna, Western Suyá and Beiço-de-Pau are an Indigenous people in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil. Their population was around 167 in 2020.[1]
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 167[1] (2020) | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
| Mato Grosso (Brazil) | |
| Languages | |
| Tapayuna language |
Language
The Tapayuna speak the Tapayuna language, a Northern Jê language closely related and mutually intelligible with the Kĩsêdjê language.[2][3][1]
History
The Tapayuna historically lived on the Arinos River, in the Tapajós basin, between Juruena and Aripuanã.[4]: 34–5 They were decimated in mid-20th century as a result of numerous conflicts with Brazilian settlers, rubber tappers, and ranchers; it is estimated that their population declined 90% until reaching 41 individuals in 1969,[4]: 36–40 [5][6]: 9 which has been characterized as an ethnocide.[4]: 37–38 The surviving Tapayúna were then transferred to Xingu Indigenous Park at some point between 1969 and 1970, resulting in 10 more deaths.[5] At first, they stayed with the Kĩsêdjê, speakers of a closely related language.[4]: 41–2 Later, many Tapayúna moved to Terra Indígena Capoto-Jarina, where they went on to live with the Mẽtyktire subgroup of the Kayapó people, speakers of another Northern Jê language, Mẽbêngôkre.[4]: 42–3
Society
The Tapayuna are generally monogamous; however, the pajé is allowed to marry two women. After marriage, a Tapayuna man must take up residence in his father-in-law's house.[1]