ALTERITIES AND RELIGIONS

REFLECTIONS ABOUT THE PRESENCE OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH AMONG QUILOMBOLAS

Abstract

The issue surrounding quilombola ethnic identification has been explored by many researchs, but it draws attention to the emphasis given to possible illegitimacy for groups converted to Christianity. Therefore, a historical analysis of the quilombola presence in Brazil and the advances obtained around the concept of ethnic group can better elucidate the issue. The research is of documentary and bibliographic nature. The theory proposed by Fredrik Barth on ethnic groups and their borders will serve as the basis for the study proposed here. In view of this, it would not be the external attributes of culture that determine identification, and it is possible to affirm that an individual or group can go through the Christian experience without, however, ceasing to be quilombola.