Interethnic dynamics in southern Patagonia seen through the trajectory of cacique Orkeke (1866-1884)

Abstract

This paper approaches interethnic dynamics in southern Patagonia through the study of the trajectory of cacique Orkeke. Based on a documentary body, of official reports, telegrams, correspondence, chronicles and travel diaries, we capture the moments of exchange and negotiation that took place after the signing of the “Treaty with the Teguelche Tribes” in which Orkeke played a central role as “Allied Chieftain”. The paper addresses the subsequent abrupt modification of these links in the so-called “Conquest of the Desert”, in which the capture of Orkeke was the primary objective of the military expeditions into the south. Oreke lived his last days as a “subdued cacique” in the city of Buenos Aires. The interethnic dynamics in both periods are analyzed with a focus on the different indigenous strategies facing the creole advance in the region.