QUILOMBOLA Meaning and
Definition
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Quilombola is a term primarily used in Brazil to refer to the descendants of runaway slaves who established communities known as quilombos during the era of slavery. The word itself is derived from the Portuguese term "quilombo," which translates to "a settlement or camp of escaped slaves."
The quilombolas, as they are also known, are typically recognized as a distinct ethnic group within Brazil, with their own social, cultural, and historical characteristics. They have preserved and continue to value their African heritage, including their language, traditions, and spiritual beliefs. These communities are often located in rural or remote areas, where they have developed unique agricultural practices, artisanal crafts, and subsistence-based lifestyles.
The rights and recognition of quilombola communities have been a subject of contention in Brazilian society, as they have historically faced social, economic, and political marginalization. In recent years, efforts have been made to legally recognize and grant land rights to quilombola communities, aiming to secure their cultural heritage and promote social inclusion.
Beyond Brazil, the term quilombola is occasionally used in other countries, such as Colombia and Ecuador, to describe similar communities of descendants of escaped slaves. However, its primary and most widely recognized usage remains associated with the quilombolas in Brazil.
Etymology of QUILOMBOLA
The word "quilombola" originates from the Portuguese language. Its etymology can be traced back to the term "quilombo", which was used in colonial Brazil to describe settlements formed by runaway enslaved Africans and indigenous peoples who sought refuge and freedom. These communities, known as quilombos, were seen as a threat by the colonial authorities. term "quilombo" is believed to have its roots in the Kimbundu language, spoken by the Bantu people from Angola. In Kimbundu, the word "kilombo" refers to a fortified village or camp. The Bantu people were among those who were captured and brought to Brazil as enslaved laborers during the transatlantic slave trade.
Over time, the word "quilombo" evolved in usage and meaning, becoming synonymous with resistance, autonomy, and liberation. It came to represent not only physical communities but also the spirit of struggle against slavery and social injustice.
