The Quechua: Disappearing World (Enhanced DVD)

Each part of this series explores a different aspect, tradition, and/or problem of several different modern day Native American tribes. This DVD focuses on the Quechua; a tribe in an isolated part of Peru and their quest to become part of the modern world.

One of the things that make the Quechua so unique among modern tribes is how they have embraced and adapted to today's world. Unlike other tribes in South America that want nothing to do with outsiders, the Quechua are actively fighting to join the modern world. The biggest example of this is their fight to get a road connecting their land to the local villages of Peru. Proponents of this rod within the tribe cite the ability to attract tourism; especially during the annual Qoyllur Rit'i festival. Tribal members explain how the road will improve the living conditions and economic outlook for themselves. Opponents of the road, however, worry that it will be the end of a the tribe's unique way of life. Once the road is built, there will be little preventing the young men and women off the Quechua from leaving the tribe and fully integrating into Peruvian society.

While the Quechua are somewhat isolated on their land elevated over 17,000 feet above sea level, they have already been greatly influenced by modern life. The majority of the tribe claim their religion to be Roman Catholic, but many members still practice some of their traditional pagan beliefs and ceremonies alongside their Catholic ones. This practice is shown to have existed for centuries; beginning when missionaries first discovered the tribe and incorporated their shrines into Catholicism.

The Quechua: Disappearing World

• Enhanced DVD
• ISBN: 978-1-62290-544-7
• Run Time: 51 Minutes
• Copy Right Date: 1974
• CC