Aymara of Bolivia

Overview

• The Aymara is a native ethnic group in Bolivia with approximately 2,000,000 members.
• They inhabit the Andes region, extending over Western Bolivia, Southern Peru, and Northern Chile.

History

• The Aymara once thrived in the ancient city of Tiahuanaco, the former capital of a great Central American empire.
• Conquered by the Incas during the reign of Huayna Capac.
• After the Spanish colonization, the Aymara were divided into different chieftaincies such as Charqa, Quillaca, Carangas, and Haracapi.
• Despite historical subjugation, the Aymara maintain a strong presence in the region.

Current Demographics

• Predominantly live in the Lake Titicaca basin area.
• El Alto, near La Paz, is the urban center with a population of 750,000.

Language and Culture

• The Aymara language is actively spoken in the Titicaca region of Peru and Bolivia.
• The Wiphala is the Aymara flag, characterized by seven colors with diagonal stripes.
• Coca plant cultivation and usage is cultural, both for traditional medicine and rituals.
• Inti (sun god) and Pachamama (earth goddess) are central figures in their rituals.
• The Chola dress is a cultural emblem for Aymara women, consisting of a bowler hat, aguayo, heavy pollera, skirt, boots, and jewelry.

Cultural Significance

• The Aymara culture is deeply embedded in Bolivian identity and traditions.
• Their practices and symbols, such as the Chola dress and the Wiphala flag, are recognized as cultural icons.