Terena

Who are the Terena?

The Terena are an Indigenous people of Brazil, primarily settled in the Aquidauana-Miranda region of Mato Grosso do Sul. They are one of the four Guaná subgroups and maintain a strong sense of community through shared agricultural work, hospitality, and cultural practices. Their society is shaped by kinship, traditional crafts, and a history of resilience in the face of land loss and conflict. Today, they live in about 29 villages and value both tradition and adaptation.

Where do the Terena live?

The Terena homeland lies in the Aquidauana-Miranda region of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. This area is characterized by river valleys, forests, and fertile land suitable for agriculture. Historically, the Terena lived west of the Paraguay River in the Paraguayan Chaco, but migrated to their current territory following conflict and displacement. Their villages are spread across several indigenous areas in the region.

What language do the Terena speak?

The Terena speak a language from the Arawakan family, with influences from neighboring groups. Portuguese is also widely spoken, and some use Terena Sign Language and LIBRAS (Brazilian Sign Language). The Terena language remains an important part of their identity and kinship, with etymology reflecting family relationships.

How do the Terena live?

Agriculture is central to Terena life. They grow cassava, rice, beans, maize, potatoes, and sugarcane, with both men and women participating in farming. Surplus crops are sold in local markets. Cattle, chickens, and pigs are also raised, though limited land has caused some internal challenges. Pottery and cotton spinning are traditional crafts, with pottery still widely practiced for both personal use and trade. Many Terena also engage in wage labor.

How is Terena society organised?

Terena society is organized around extended families and kinship. Marriage between close relatives is not allowed. Influenced by Christianity, monogamy is common, and marriages are often arranged by the bride’s parents. The society is patrilocal, with newlyweds living with the husband’s family before establishing their own home. Hospitality is a core value, and outsiders are welcomed as 'those who eat from the same dish.'

What do the Terena believe?

The sources do not detail Terena religious beliefs, but note the influence of Christianity on marriage customs. Artistry is important, especially in pottery and cotton crafts. Hospitality and kindness are central cultural values, reflected in their language and daily life.

The history of the Terena

The Terena originally lived in the Paraguayan Chaco but migrated to Brazil due to colonial conflict in the 19th century. They fought alongside Brazilian forces in the Paraguayan War, suffering losses and displacement. After the war, their lands were taken by military and political elites, leading to a period the Terena call the 'time of servitude.' In the 20th century, they were confined to smaller reserves. Despite a constitutional promise to return ancestral lands, many disputes remain, including violent incidents like the 2013 Buriti Farm eviction.

Terena life today

The Terena population has grown from about 3,000 in the 1840s to over 26,000 today. They live mainly in Mato Grosso do Sul, with some in Mato Grosso and São Paulo. Land rights remain a major issue, with ongoing conflicts over territory and legal recognition. Despite these challenges, the Terena continue to maintain their language, crafts, and community life, adapting to new circumstances while preserving core traditions.

Questions people ask about the Terena

Sources and further reading

• Terena people on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data

This page was written with AI assistance from the sources above and checked automatically before publishing. It may contain mistakes, and it is no substitute for hearing from the Terena themselves. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-02.