Way of Life November 30, 2020
FInd out the reason why there are llamas all over Machu Pichu and how they are part of the Native Culture.
South America
Table of
Contents
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The Llamas of Machu Pichu Are Old Residents
Peruvian Culture
A Complte History of Argentinian Empanadas
Argentinian Beef Empanadas Why Soccer is so Popular in Brazil
11 13 14 15 18
Colombia’s Instruments
Chilean Music Paraguay Independance Day
The Cowboys of South America
Contemporary Cultures
The Llamas of Machu Picchu Are Old Residents
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achu Pichu, a top a high peak in the Andemountains, is known for the mysterious Incan ruins – and llamas. These large wooly creatures, along with their close cousins Alpacas, are the only residents of Machu Pichu now. These hardy beasts share many traits with camels; in fact, they are all part of the camelid species. With their ability to survive in a hostile environment on little water and the poor foliage found at 3000-5000 ft, alpacas and llamas were ideally suited for domestication by the ancient Incas. They provide wool and meat for the native peoples, as well as sturdy transportation through the mountain passes. The alpacas and llamas of Machu Picchu even provide fertilizer for the main Incan farmed crop, maize. 1
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The Alpacas and Llamas of Machu Picchu The llamas of Machu Picchu were so important to the Incan society that hunting them was forbidden. Llama herders and breeders held elevated places in the culture, as preservation and the health of the herds directly affected the survival of the people. Disease or poor health of the herd could have catastrophic consequences for the villagers. Llamas were even used by the Inca priests in religious ceremonies. Domesticated about 4000 years ago by the Incans, alpacas and llamas are still part of the native culture today. Although they wander free atop the summit and Machu Pichu ruins, farther south, they are herded and used
to support the local population. Wool from the animals is used to make sweaters that are thick and warm, with the added benefit of being hypo-allergenic. Not only are the herds still maintained by the native people, the lean, nutritious meat feeds many in the nearby urban areas. Llamas, being herd animals, tend to socialize with each other in a variety of “play,” from neck “hugging” to wrestling, kicking, and spitting. Farmers must be careful not to over-socialize baby llamas with humans, otherwise, the llama will grow up to treat humans in this manner. Their social structure is family, then herd, with ranking within the herd being fluid (although
the young are commonly “disciplined” by their elders). Llamas are also very gentle – you can find them outside of Peru in many U.S. petting zoos and farms. They can be easily trained to harness, and are very curious. Photographers at Machu Pichu will find their vacation camera rolls full of llama “photo bombs.” To plan your Peru adventure and to learn more about things to do in Cusco, get in touch with Alpaca Expeditions. Alpaca Expeditions is a Peruvian travel operator with a main office in located in Cusco, Peru, and we are the top-rated tour operators of the Inca Trail.
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eruvian culture is a beautiful mix of Hispanic and native traditions. The Quechua and the Aymara are the two main native cultures of Peru, both of whom speak their native languages. These Inca descendants have successfully preserved and developed their proud cultures despite the creeping in of globalization. In fact, the old Inca seat of Cuzco is still perceived as the cultural capital of the country by many. Peruvian typical dress is beautiful. In some regions, the women wear layers of bright skirts called polleras. Some wear black skirts with a wide embroidered belt, or cotton petticoats underneath with elaborate designs. Peruvian ponchos are a necessity in the highlands, where the cold can be harsh; the ponchos of Cajamarca and Puno are long and dramatic, where as those of Cuzco are shorter. Woolen or straw hats are also common. A Peruvian tour should include some exposure to the country’s art, both modern and ancient. The pre-Spanish artifacts are striking examples of artistic expression, from jewelry and weavings to stone and metal carvings. Mestizo and indigenous painting styles developed during the colonial period and have evolved into a complex artistic culture. Some of Peru’s architecture is breathtaking; the colonial city of Arequipa is the perfect example. White cathedrals and facades rise out of the cobblestone streets, and there are architectural treasures dotting the winding avenues, from old monasteries and mansions to cottages. In the realm of ancient architecture, the lost city of Machu Picchu is unparalleled in its engineering and location. The stone temples and salons rise directly out of the mountain’s peak, that falls away on all sides to the rivers below. The terraced gardens reveal the agricultural advances of the Incas, and the astrological markers show incredible precision and knowledge of celestial events. The lost city is one of the world’s great wonders.
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Peruvian music is distinctive, and a Peruvian tour will likely feature several tastes of it. It is a blend of the pre-Colombian influences of wind instruments and drums with delicate Spanish stringed instruments.
Peruvian Culture
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rgentina is a cultural destination that will win you over through your stomach. Home to 45 million people and famous for the tango, it’s also known for the popular and savory empanada. What’s an empanada and why is it such a big deal? We’re exploring the complete history of Argentinian empanadas and why they’re so popular. If you’re not already craving one, you will be after reading this.
What Is an Empanada?
An empanada is a pastry or turnover that’s filled with savory ingredients and served hot. The name comes from the verb “empanar” meaning “to wrap or coat in bread or dough.” Empanadas come baked or fried and shaped like triangles or half-moons. Recipes vary on the elegance or simplicity of the dish, but the basic ingredients are always the same. You might recognize the empanada if you’ve eaten pasties while traveling through England. The basic ingredients combine three things: a dough, a filling, and a cooking method. Popular fillings include ground or minced beef, chicken, or even a hamand-cheese combo. You can also buy them filled with vegetables or fruit. If you go to an empanada restaurant, you can find endless varieties. This pocket-sized meal can be found everywhere while visiting South America. Beef-loving Argentina loves to boast the recipe as its own, and every province has its own recipe. Everyone loves it–but where did it come from? 5 Way of Life Nov 2020
A Complete History of
The History of Argentinian Empanadas
The empanada’s origin is unclear, but the first mention of an empanada goes back to medieval times. Historians have discovered a Catalan cookbook that has (perhaps) the earliest empanada recipe. A man named Ruperto de Nola published it in 1520. It’s believed that early Spanish immigrants carried the recipe to Argentina during the 16th century. The diet of medieval Spain included bread, legumes, and different types of meat. All of these ingredients go into traditional empanadas. The staple ingredients for empanadas have changed over the years. Historically, an empanada was a simple bread dough filled with oxen meat, pork, or beef. Today, the empanada’s filling depends on what is seasonal and fresh. In Argentinian history, the empanada was once known as the working man’s meal. This is because it contained a full meal that was easy to carry to work. Although we don’t call it that today, the ease of the pastry dish is not lost upon recent generations. It’s still a staple item in Argentina food culture. Many families will cook empanadas as an easy dinner meal or party food. Street corners and fairs will feature fresh empanadas as take-and-go street food for walkers. Also, popular restaurants will focus on unique and extravagant empanada recipes. The Argentinian empanada is as historic as Argentina’s infamous cookie, and it’s a must-try for anyone traveling to the area.
Argentinian Empanadas
Take One To Go
Although it’s one of the oldest recipes out there, the empanada is still enjoyed as a popular meal today. Many like to boast that it comes from the kitchens of Argentina. Either way, it’s a delicious and savory pastry that’s eaten as a staple in Argentinian homes. Way of Life Nov 2020
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Argentinian
Beef Empanadas 7
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Heat 2 Tbsp. oil in a large pot over high. Cook beef, breaking up with a spoon, until browned but not completely cooked through, 6–8 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl with a slotted spoon, leaving as much fat in pan as possible.
Ingredients 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided 2 lb. ground beef (20% fat) 2 medium onions, chopped 2 small red bell peppers, seeded, chopped Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper 3 Tbsp. ground cumin 2 Tbsp. sweet paprika 1 Tbsp. dried oregano ¼ tsp. cayenne pepper 1½ cups low-sodium chicken stock or broth 2 tsp. sugar ½ cup raisins 3 packages (12 each) Puff Pastry Dough for Turnovers/Empanadas (preferably Goya) ½ cup pitted green olives (Picholine or Spanish), rinsed well, cut in half lengthwise
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Do Ahead: Filling can be made 3 days ahead. Keep chilled. Unbaked empanadas can be made 3 months ahead; freeze on sheet tray, then transfer to freezer bags and keep frozen.
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Reduce heat to medium and cook onion, bell peppers, and remaining 1 Tbsp. oil, stirring, until tender but not browned, 6–8 minutes; season with salt and black pepper. Add cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add chicken stock and reserved beef along with any accumulated juices to pot. Stir in sugar, 4 tsp. salt, and ¼ tsp. black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring and scraping up any brown bits, until most of the liquid is evaporated, 15–20 minutes; taste and season with salt and black pepper, if needed. Stir in raisins. Transfer to a medium bowl, cover, and chill at least 3 hours.
Preheat oven to 375°. Let dough sit at room temperature 15 minutes to temper. Remove 6 rounds from package, keeping plastic divider underneath, and arrange on a work surface. Place 2 Tbsp. filling in the center of each round. Top with 2 olive halves. Brush water around half of outer edge of each round. Using plastic divider to help you, fold round over filling and pinch edges to seal. Using a fork, crimp edges. Remove plastic and transfer empanada to a parchment-lined sheet tray, spacing 1” apart. Repeat with remaining rounds (you’ll get about 12 empanadas on each tray).
Bake empanadas, rotating tray halfway through, until golden brown and slightly darker around the edges, 25–35 minutes.
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Why Soccer is so Popular in Brazil 9
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Adenor Leonardo Bacchi, commonly known as “Tite,” is a Brazilian professional football coach and former player who is the head coach of the Brazil national team. He was interviewed to inform us about Brazilians and their passion for football.
So first of all, tell us a little bit of Brazil and football? “Well Brazil is the 5th largest country in the world by size and population. It is most known for their football prowess. We didn’t invent football but we sure did perfect it.”
What is the History behind? “In the inagural FIFA World Cup of 1930 Brazil was ousted in the opening round. Although an unimpressive performance by the Brazilians, The sport gained national attention and sparked the relentless dedication of young footballers around the country.”
Why do young Brazilian footballers love this sport so much? “Football offered an avenue for the youth to escape poverty and the sangers of the 3rd world county. This sport became a great passion for Brazilians who often refer to their country as the “the country of football.”
What was the outcome for this passion Brazilians had? “Well not trying to brag but, The Brazilian National Football team is the only team to qualify for every FIFA World Cup. This led to their 5 championships, which are the most of any nation; they are also 2-time runner-ups and 2-time Bronze medalists.”
How can you prove that Brazilians are succesful with soccer? “Today, men and women in all corners of Brail play Football, from the streets to indoor fields. Brazilians dominate the sport with 10,000 professional players worldwide-most of any nation.”
Do you believe everyone agrees football is part of the Brazilian Culture? “Yes of course as a matter of fact, football fans from all nationalities love Brazilian’s skillful, creative, free-flowing and fast-paced style. When anyone thinks of Brazil it’s hard not to think of Football!” Way of Life Nov 2o2o
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Colombia’s ata
iT ple
The tiple is usually played alongside a tambourine and is an essential part of Colombia’s rural heritage. The Tiple and Guabina Festival is held in Velez, Santander, every August. It is popular in regions such as Santander, Antioquia, Boyaca and Cundinamarca. The tiple can be found at Woodwind & Brasswind for $279.
Tambora
Caja
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The caja, a drum similar to a tambora, is one of the three main or traditional instruments of the Vallenato music. Caja, the slang word adopted to nickname this drum, means “box” in Spanish. It can be found at Amazon for $349.
Tamboras are essential in cumbia music, which can be heard across Colombia including the Barranquilla Carnival and the National Cumbia Festival in El Banco, Magdalena. This product can be found at Woodwind & Brasswind for $260.
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The caña de millo is a woodwind musical instrument of indigenous origin used in the cumbia music of Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Can be bought for $20 at Amazon. Way of Life Nov 2o2o
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ach
Represents the indigenous side of vallenato and cumbia, alongside European and West African influences. This istrument can be found at Amazon for $20.
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Instruments The maracas are an integral part of the conjunto de cumbria and conjunto de gaitas ensembles. Maracas are usually played in pairs, with either one in each hand or two held together in one hand. Maracas can be purchased at Woodwind & Brasswind for $15.
n o i rd
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The accordion is now the backbone of Colombian folk music. Accordions also feature in cumbia music. Every year Colombia holds the world’s biggest accordion-playing contest, the Vallenato Legend Festival in Valledupar. This instuement can be found at Guitar Center for $599.
Aco
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Marimba music and traditional chants and dances are musical expressions integral to the family and community fabric of people of African descent in the Colombian South Pacific region. Marimbas can be found at Woodwind & Brasswind for $2,862.
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The harp has since inspired infusions with pop and salsa music, although its popularity in the region’s traditional llanera music is evident at the annual “Golden Harp” festival, usually held in Saravena, Arauca. This inturment can be found at Guitar Center for $525. Way of Life Nov 2o2o
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Chilean Music Chile has produced a rich variety of cultural phenomenons including vibrant music and dance traditions.
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n the west coast of South America, Chile occupies a strip of land that extends 2,653 miles from north to south. This elongated country measures 221 miles at its widest point and just 40 miles at its thinnest. This unique geography has produced a rich variety of cultural phenomenon including vibrant music and dance traditions. Pre-Colombian Chilean musical traditions come from the Mapuche people. Their music is mainly religious in nature and is performed with traditional instruments such as the cultrún, cascahuillas, the trutruca, and the torompe. Together with these instruments, some indigenous dances with ritualistic origins have also been preserved such as the lepún, the machitún, and the nauillatún. The folkloric music of Chile is mainly based around the cueca. This dance was designated as a national dance of Chile in 1979 and the different versions vary depending on the latitude, 13
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which is unsurprising considering the length of the country. The influence of the Andes in the north of the country and the presence of military bands which Spaniards brought to the region are reflected by the use of the zampoña, the quena, the charango, the guitar, and instruments of military origin including the bass drum, trumpets, and the tubas. These instruments accompany dances such as the cueca, the bailes chinos, and the huaynos. In Chile’s central region, instruments such as the accordion are played, which were introduced by the numerous immigrants who arrived from Germany. The guitar, the caja, and the tormento are instruments used to accompany the dances of the central region like the sajuriana (originally an Argentine dance), the refalosa (from Peru), and the sombrerito. In the south of Chile and especially in the Chiloé Islands, Spanish and huilliche traditions mixed to produce the paricona dance, a variety of the Spanish pericón. When speaking about the music of Chile, several internationally known folk singers from the “Nueva Canción Chilena” (new Chilean song) movement must be mentioned, such as Violeta Parra and Victor Jara.
The Revolution of Independence occurred in the early morning hours of May 15th, 1811, culminating in a conspiracy led by Pedro Juan Caballero. The Spanish governor, Bernardo de Velasco, dismissed from his office, joined the first provisional forces, along with Capitan Juan Valeriano Zeballos and Dr. JosĂŠ Gaspar de Francia.
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he celebrations for Paraguay National Day take ditional Independence Day dish, is served on this day place all over the country. Events, such as parades, fire- because it is only on special occasions that the poor can works and concerts are held. However, there are different afford to buy the eggs and cheese that go into the soup. ways in which the day is celebrated across the country. At the Campo Area people celebrate the event with The most elaborate Independence Day parade is in the their family and friends. People have barbecues, play capital, AsunciĂłn. People may wear traditional clothes football and have fun with lots of beer and loud muas they stroll down the streets: for the men, fancy sic. They also mix wine with cola to create the unique shirts, broad-brimmed straw hats, ponchos, a faja taste that can make such days all the more memorable. (sash) around the waist, and full trousers known as bombachas ; for the women, blouses with lace inserts At the larger cities and towns in Paraguay parades are and brightly colored embroidery, full skirts with many staged. People also indulge in traditional Paraguayan layers of petticoats underneath, and a rebozo or shawl food such as Sopa Paraguayan and corn. Mate, a losimilar to the Spanish mantilla. Sopa Paraguay, a tra cal drink, is a common feature during the festivities. Way of Life Nov 2o2o
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G
The
aucho, the nomadic and colourful horseman and cowhand of the Argentine and Uruguayan Pampas (grasslands), who flourished from the mid18th to the mid-19th century and has remained a folk hero similar to the cowboy in western North America. The term also has been used to refer to cowhands and other people of Rio Grande do Sul state in Brazil. From the early morning Guachos, wake up and do their taskts throught the day. They’re hardworking and cook for themselves to provide food for the familiy. They work hard on taking care of their animals and the ranch.
Cowboys of
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As the sun rises, guachos wake up early in the morning to start their day. 2
The first thing guachos do is get their horses to be prepared for the next chore. 15
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Guachos go on a ride on their horses looking for the cattle on the ranch.
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Once they find the cattle, they gather and walk them to their destination to feed them later.
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Guachos then go cut wood to prepare it for the fire.
The guachos start the fire and put water to boil.
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The guachos cook food for their families and themselves. Most of the time, the animals are hunted by them. 17
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After all the chores are done, guachos like to have their fun too.
CONTEMPORARY CULTURES
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outh America’s rich history is explored by contemporary cultures. Organizations are reaching a broader global audience in order to spread social and political messages, and bring in revenue from tourism and investment. Indigenous societies continue to have a strong presence in South America. COICA, the Coordinator of Indigenous Organizations of the Amazon Basin, integrates nine organizations that represent each country of the Amazon region. COICA protects indigenous practices, focusing on sustainable use of resources. The group has worked on issues such as environmental legislation, cultural representation, and leadership training for indigenous peoples. Religious practices remain the backbone of many South American cultures. While Catholicism dominates the continent, other spiritual beliefs have influenced both spiritual and secular activities.
The Rio Carnival is the largest carnival event in the world, attracting millions of Brazilian and foreign tourists. During Carnival season, hotel prices are often four times higher than average. Some tourists pay hundreds of dollars to participate in the parade.
The Carnival of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, a festival held every year about 40 days before Easter, is an important example of a religious celebration that has been adopted by secular culture. It is both an important event in the Catholic calendar and one of the largest revenue generators in Rio.
Most participants, however, are Brazilian. The Rio Carnival incorporates two important social groups—samba schools and blocos. Samba schools are large social groups, often with thousands of members, which create elaborate floats and costumes for the Carnival parade. Blocos are smaller groups that often gather in neighborhoods to dance during Carnival festivities. Way of Life Nov 2o2o
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