Anthropological and socioeconomic characteristics of the Isluga community (1 region)

Abstract

 The article presents a study of the communities of the Isluga sector (highlands of Iquique, Region I), from an anthropological and socio-economic perspective. The area studied is 200,000 ha, and has a population of approximately 2,000 people, most of them Aymara speakers. The basic institutions (family, estancia, ayne), forms of social, territorial and political organization are examined, highlighting pre-Hispanic survivals. Aspects of the cultural changes observed are discussed. 

The population problem is then examined, showing a general tendency towards stability, and even an increase, with respect to the levels of 80 years ago. A detailed count of the population is made, by ayllus and estancias, and the types of migration observed in the area are discussed. Finally, the economic situation is investigated (sources of production, markets) and the possibilities of progress in these areas (livestock, agriculture), as an alternative for the development of these populations.