Making Ecuadorian Histories

Four Centuries of Defining Power

Nonfiction, History, Americas, South America
Cover of the book Making Ecuadorian Histories by O. Hugo Benavides, University of Texas Press
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: O. Hugo Benavides ISBN: 9780292782945
Publisher: University of Texas Press Publication: January 1, 2010
Imprint: University of Texas Press Language: English
Author: O. Hugo Benavides
ISBN: 9780292782945
Publisher: University of Texas Press
Publication: January 1, 2010
Imprint: University of Texas Press
Language: English
In Ecuador, as in all countries, archaeology and history play fundamental roles in defining national identity. Connecting with the prehistoric and historic pasts gives the modern state legitimacy and power. But the state is not the only actor that lays claim to the country's archaeological patrimony, nor is its official history the only version of the story. Indigenous peoples are increasingly drawing on the past to claim their rights and standing in the modern Ecuadorian state, while the press tries to present a "neutral" version of history that will satisfy its various publics.This pathfinding book investigates how archaeological knowledge is used for both maintaining and contesting nation-building and state-hegemony in Ecuador. Specifically, Hugo Benavides analyzes how the pre-Hispanic site of Cochasqu has become a source of competing narratives of Native American, Spanish, and Ecuadorian occupations, which serve the differing needs of the nation-state and different national populations at large. He also analyzes the Indian movement itself and the recent controversy over the final resting place for the traditional monolith of San Biritute. Offering a more nuanced view of the production of history than previous studies, Benavides demonstrates how both official and resistance narratives are constantly reproduced and embodied within the nation-state's dominant discourses.
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
In Ecuador, as in all countries, archaeology and history play fundamental roles in defining national identity. Connecting with the prehistoric and historic pasts gives the modern state legitimacy and power. But the state is not the only actor that lays claim to the country's archaeological patrimony, nor is its official history the only version of the story. Indigenous peoples are increasingly drawing on the past to claim their rights and standing in the modern Ecuadorian state, while the press tries to present a "neutral" version of history that will satisfy its various publics.This pathfinding book investigates how archaeological knowledge is used for both maintaining and contesting nation-building and state-hegemony in Ecuador. Specifically, Hugo Benavides analyzes how the pre-Hispanic site of Cochasqu has become a source of competing narratives of Native American, Spanish, and Ecuadorian occupations, which serve the differing needs of the nation-state and different national populations at large. He also analyzes the Indian movement itself and the recent controversy over the final resting place for the traditional monolith of San Biritute. Offering a more nuanced view of the production of history than previous studies, Benavides demonstrates how both official and resistance narratives are constantly reproduced and embodied within the nation-state's dominant discourses.

More books from University of Texas Press

Cover of the book The Captive Woman's Lament in Greek Tragedy by O. Hugo Benavides
Cover of the book Herodotus and the Question Why by O. Hugo Benavides
Cover of the book The Individuality of Portugal by O. Hugo Benavides
Cover of the book A Natural History of Belize by O. Hugo Benavides
Cover of the book The Making of the Mexican Border by O. Hugo Benavides
Cover of the book On the Dirty Plate Trail by O. Hugo Benavides
Cover of the book Savage Cinema by O. Hugo Benavides
Cover of the book Art Systems by O. Hugo Benavides
Cover of the book Memory, Oblivion, and Jewish Culture in Latin America by O. Hugo Benavides
Cover of the book Death on the Lonely Llano Estacado by O. Hugo Benavides
Cover of the book Multiculturalism and the Mouse by O. Hugo Benavides
Cover of the book The Challenges to Democracy by O. Hugo Benavides
Cover of the book Texas Takes Wing by O. Hugo Benavides
Cover of the book Fear on Trial by O. Hugo Benavides
Cover of the book Amorous Games by O. Hugo Benavides
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy