REFLEXÕES SOBRE OS POVOS INDÍGENAS BRASILEIROS:

DA INVASÃO DOS EUROPEUS AO BRASIL COLÔNIA

Abstract

This article presents a literature review concerning the history of Indigenous peoples in Brazil from the European invasion of the country in the 16th century to the end of the colonial period in the 19th century. Based on the distribution of Indigenous populations across central and southern Brazil and the recorded sambaqui sites, we can verify that the presence of these peoples in Brazilian territory dates back approximately 7,800 years, and they were ceramic producers. We present data related to the classification, location, and demographics of Indigenous peoples, as well as the indigenist policies implemented with the aim of settlement and colonization. Methodologically, this is a bibliographic study with a qualitative and reflective approach. The theoretical foundation is based on the works of Almeida (2010); Caminha (1963); Cunha (1992); Diégues Júnior (1952); Fausto (1995); Fernandes (1970); Gandavo (2008); Lima (2012); Melatti (1972); Nimuendajú (1944, 1983); Oliveira (2016); Ribeiro, B. (1983); Ribeiro, D. (1957, 1995); Rodrigues (1986); Silva (2013); Todorov (1983); Varnhagen (n.d.); Souza (1851), as well as data from the IBGE and Planalto databases. As a result, we point out that the European invasion caused enormous cultural contrasts, which led to the disintegration and decimation of Indigenous peoples, consequences that are still reflected today.

Keywords: history of Indigenous Brazil; original Indigenous peoples; indigenist policy.