| A Chamacoco lady preparing caraguatá fibers to weave. |
| Total population |
|---|
| 1,800 (2007)[1] |
| Regions with significant populations |
| Paraguay Brazil (Mato Grosso do Sul) |
| Languages |
| Religion |
|
traditional tribal religion, Christianity |
The Chamacoco people (Ishír) are an indigenous people of Paraguay.[2] Some also live in Brazil.[1]
The Chamacoco have two major divisions, the Ebytoso, who lived along the Paraguay River, and the Tomáraho, who traditionally lived in the forests. The Ebytoso converted to Christianity, while the Tomáraho have lived in marginal areas in order to preserve their traditional world views and lifeways. In the 1980s the Instituto Nacional del Indigena (INDI) resettled the Tomáraho in a community called Puerto Esperanza with the Ebytoso.[3]
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The Chamacoco are also known as the Ishiro, Jeywo, Yshyro, Xamicoco, Xamacoco, or Yshyr people. Their autonym is Ishír.[1][2]
Chamacoco people speak the Chamacoco language, a Zamuco language.[1]
Traditionally, the Chamacoco were hunter-gatherers. Currently, they farm and raise animals, such as sheep, goats, pigs, cows, horses, and poultry. They work as ranch hands, day laborers, and domestic servants. They create crafts for sale such as baskets, wood carvings, and other creations.[1]