Ethnic group in Brazil
Ethnic group
TheTapayuna (autonym:Kajkwakratxi), also known asTapayúna,Western Suyá andBeiço-de-Pau are anindigenous people native to the state ofMato Grosso,Brazil. Their population was around 167 in 2020.[1]
The Tapayuna speak theTapayuna language, aNorthern Jê language closely related and mutually intelligible with theKĩsêdjê language.[2][3][1]
The Tapayuna historically lived on theArinos River, in theTapajós basin, betweenJuruena andAripuanã.[4]: 34–5 They were decimated in mid-20th century as a result of numerous conflicts with Brazilian settlers, rubber tappers, and ranchers; it is estimated that their population declined 90% until reaching 41 individuals in 1969,[4]: 36–40 [5][6]: 9 which has been characterized as anethnocide.[4]: 37–38 The surviving Tapayúna were then transferred toXingu Indigenous Park at some point between 1969 and 1970, resulting in 10 more deaths.[5] At first, they stayed with theKĩsêdjê, speakers of aclosely related language.[4]: 41–2 Later, many Tapayúna moved toTerra Indígena Capoto-Jarina, where they went on to live with theMẽtyktire subgroup of theKayapó people, speakers of anotherNorthern Jê language,Mẽbêngôkre.[4]: 42–3
The Tapayuna are generallymonogamous; however, thepajé is allowed to marry two women. After marriage, a Tapayuna man must take up residence in his father-in-law's house.[1]
