ABSTRACT
In this study we intend to analyze the process of formation of the indigenous aldeamento of Riacho do Mato (1860s) based on the claims of indigenous groups in the region, active in the revolts that occurred in the early nineteenth century in Pernambuco (Northeastern Brazil). The constitution of this indigenous settlement constitutes an important gain for the natives involved in armed conflicts initiated by the elites of Pernambuco in the nineteenth century. Even with the replacement of the village of Riacho do Mato by Colônia Socorro, the Indians continued to struggle for access to the lands, using the legislations and provisions of the central and provincial governments aiming at their interests and their needs. In this sense, we see the natives constituting their historical protagonism in regional and imperial political life.
Keywords:
indigenous protagonism; settlement; revolts