Pathbreaking Ethnography of Population Movements in Peru

This pathbreaking ethnography of population movements between rural and urban places in Peru addresses the conceptual and methodological problems of studying deterritorialized populations and the implications of this for anthropology's notions of culture and identity.

Fieldwork and Focus

Based on extensive fieldwork, this book explores the economic, social, and ritual bonds which link migrants in Peru's major cities to their Andean native village. Many urban migrants establish networks based on kinship and marriage ties to exploit resources in the city as well as the village. These networks ensure they maintain strong links to their native village.

Cultural Practices and Community Formation

Fiestas, soccer tournaments, and folklore festivals also play a crucial role in the formation of migrant communities in Peru's cities. The author analyses these performance practices and shows how they give rise to the creation of new social identities. The participation of second-generation migrants, returning migrants, and migrant spouses in village life is also discussed.