The Guarani-Kaiowá resistance: from the European invasion to the 21st century

Abstract

Within the scope of the discussions raised about the Marco Temporal trial in the Federal Supreme Court, this article seeks to problematize the issues arising from colonialist and state practices implemented among the indigenous peoples of Brazil, since the European invasion, particularly in relation to the Guaranis-Kaiowás indigenous people, currently residing in the Dourados Indigenous Land, in Mato Grosso do Sul. In addition, we will also discuss the territorial reoccupation movements carried out by the Guaranis-Kaiowás in recent decades. As a methodology, documentary and theoretical analyzes were used, in addition to participant observation with Guaranis-Kaiowás indigenous people, during the month of July 2023, in the Dourados Indigenous Reserve and in Retomadas in the region. Finally, we conclude that, despite the advances made in recent decades, challenges remain to be overcome by the Brazilian state, especially in repairing harmful practices that have afflicted indigenous populations in the country for centuries.