Highland Agricultural Knowledge in Migrant Families (Argentina)

Abstract

Migrant families are key to observe the dynamic relationship between social groups and their territories. We have analyzed different aspects of the migration process of a large group of people in Argentina that currently dwell in a lowland’s peri-urban location (Buenos Aires Metropolitan Area) but whose genealogical origins are placed in Jujuy Province rural highlands (Humahuaca and Tilcara Departments). This paper presents a brief communication about our results and findings of a long-term research on agricultural practices and knowledge deployed in both geographical areas, which are united by a considerable migrant flow intensified during the last three decades. Regularities and changes in family farming type of organization and food knowledge and practices, are key to understand the cultural heritage firmly rooted in these families and the strength and sustainability of the migration process.