Os governadores dos índios do Estado do Brasil : ascensão, consolidação e decadência (1630 - 1755).

Abstract

The present thesis has concerns on the “main” Indians – commanders of indigenous groups on behalf of the portuguese Crown in America – with emphasis on the role of these agents. In this sense, the analysis will focus on the performance of these rulers, more accurately in three different fields: in the struggle for the demarcation of land in the villages; in the processes of formation of an indigenous elite, through requests in the economy offavors, or “mercês”; and in the dynamics of ethic and cultural miscegenation. Finally, the work seeks to understand the complex role of indigenous groups in the construction of the colonial world established in America.. Divided into six chapters, the research intends to follow up the entire trajectory of rise, consolidation and decline of such an importante position in the State of Brazil. Besides, it performs an in-depth analysis on the motivations, aspirations and longings amongst indigenous groups.. Focusing on political, administrative and military issues, the studying of the government of the Indians in this context demands to understand the different levels of authority, the conformation of alliances and the role of indigenous leaders as a means of communication between villages and royal authorities.