Gaucho
Gaucho (or Gaúcho) is the term commonly used for people who live in the south regions of Brazil, mainly in Rio Grande do Sul. It can also be used for people from Uruguay, Argentina and Chile. They are similar to the North American cowboys, and, like them, gauchos of Argentina have become a symbol of freedom.
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[change] History
Working with his horse, a laço, boleodoros, and a knife, gauchos rode around the Pampas, killing wild cattle whose hides he sold secretly.[1] They were usually outlaws, and did not become respectable until they fought with San Martin for Argentine freedom.[1] After some time, many gauchos began working for hacendados and spent their lives helping huge herds of cattle over the Pampas. They liked to choose where they worked and traveled from place to place.[1]
Together with his horse, the gaucho would use his laço to catch a wild horse or a stray cow, sometimes using his boleodoro (a rawhide rope with three small ball-shaped stones on it), too.
[change] Description
Like cowboys, gauchos had a traditional outfit: a big hat, a collared shirt (mainly red), and baggy pants called bombachas[1], which were tucked into leather boots. Colorful pieces of cloth or a wide leather belt decorated with silver went around his waist, and silver spurs were on his boots. When working, gauchos often wore a big leather apron.[1]
Today, though, most gauchos are disappearing. Trucks, roads, and fences are changing gauchos into farmers and helpers. Traditional dress is usually worn only on festival days,[1] when they can remember their exciting old days.
[change] References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 Koontz, Terri; Mark Sidwell, S.M.Bunker. World Studies for Christian Schools. Greenville, South Carolina 29614: Bob Jones University Press. ISBN 1-59166-431-4.
[change] Other Websites
- Movimento Tradicionalista Gaucho (Portuguese)
- Pagina do Gaucho (Portuguese)
