Os filhos da piedade: a exposição na freguesia de Guarapiranga, Minas Gerais (1770-1820)

Abstract

The purpose of this work is analyzing the abandon of children in the Parish of Guarapiranga between the years of 1770 and 1820. It seeks to understand, through quantitative analysis and case studies, connections made between individuals who were in this abandon situation. In order to achieve our proposed purpose we have examined the following official documents: Livros de Matrículas de Expostos da Câmara Municipal de Mariana, Registros de Batismo, Traslado de Testamentos e Inventários Post Mortem. Such documents reveal us the multiple facets of abandon highlighting its use by the local population. Those documents represent the complex universe evidenced by constant shocks between council institutions and the unsheltered children's foster parents. The council assistance has not achieved to all homes that bring up those children. In many cases, giving shelter to helpless childhood demanded them to demonstrate their faith. We have noticed, thus, that the exposure phenomenon was able to establish society bonds and/or solidarity among the individuals. The baptism, as a gateway to the catholic Church, was a special moment of these social bonds connection.