Death and Conversion in the Andes: Lima and Cuzco, 1532-1670 (History, Languages, and Cultures of the Spanish and Portuguese Worlds)

Delve into the complex and fascinating history of cultural collision and religious conversion in colonial Peru with Gabriela Ramos's "Death and Conversion in the Andes: Lima and Cuzco, 1532-1670." This meticulously researched and compellingly written book, part of the "History, Languages, and Cultures of the Spanish and Portuguese Worlds" series, explores the pivotal role that the redefinition of death played in the Spanish missionary efforts to convert the indigenous population of the Andes to Catholicism. Ramos masterfully unravels the intricate tapestry of pre-Columbian Andean beliefs surrounding death and ancestor veneration. Before the arrival of the Spanish, the cult of ancestors was deeply ingrained in Andean society. The deceased were not simply gone; they actively participated in the lives of the living, influencing political decisions, offering protection, embodying the past, and even legitimizing land claims. Through elaborate rituals and continuous remembrance, the living maintained a profound connection with their ancestors. The Spanish invasion in 1532 brought not only military conquest but also a concerted effort to dismantle these deeply held beliefs and practices. Christianizing death became a crucial component of the broader campaign to reshape Andean society and impose Catholic dogma. Ramos goes beyond a simple narrative of suppression, expertly demonstrating how the interaction between Spanish colonizers and Andean communities involved continuous negotiation and adaptation. Drawing upon a rich array of sources, including historical chronicles, archaeological findings, anthropological studies, and, most significantly, a wealth of original archival material, Ramos offers a nuanced understanding of the challenges and compromises inherent in this process. The book gives particular attention to the last wills and testaments of indigenous Andeans, providing invaluable insights into their strategies for navigating the complexities of colonial life. These wills reveal the ways in which Andeans outwardly conformed to Spanish law and Christian doctrine while simultaneously striving to preserve their kinship ties and secure their place within the evolving colonial social order. Ramos focuses on two key cities within the Peruvian viceroyalty: Lima, the newly established Spanish capital on the coast, and Cuzco, the former Inca capital nestled in the Andean highlands. By contrasting the experiences of these two distinct urban centers, she highlights the diverse ways in which the Christianization of death impacted the lives of different Andean communities. The book explores how indigenous populations adapted, resisted, and ultimately reshaped the imposition of Christian beliefs about death, burial practices, and the afterlife. "Death and Conversion in the Andes" is more than just a historical account; it is a powerful exploration of cultural encounter, religious transformation, and the enduring strength of indigenous identity in the face of colonial pressures. Gabriela Ramos's meticulous scholarship and insightful analysis make this book an essential read for anyone interested in Latin American history, colonial studies, religious studies, and the complex dynamics of cultural exchange. This First Edition is a seminal work that offers a profound understanding of a pivotal period in Andean history. Readers will gain a new appreciation for the resilience and resourcefulness of the Andean people as they navigated the challenges of colonial rule and the struggle to maintain their cultural heritage.