NEW SUBJECTS AND THE FIGHT FOR LAND: GYPSY PEASANTS IN THE MINAS TRIANGLE AND ALTO PARANAÍBA (MG)

Abstract

This paper focuses on the multiplicity and diversity of territories emerging from the presence of new subjects in agrarian reform processes. The site chosen for the study was Settlement Project "Paulo Faria", where Gypsies and non-Gypsies engaged in land claim movements are fighting for territory. In the field study, twelve interviews were conducted with Gypsies and non-Gypsies to collect data on the integration of Gypsies in agrarian land structure through social/territorial movements. The interviews relied on semi-structured questionnaires aimed at providing an account of the subjects' - particularly the Gypsies' ¬- mobility as a result of their struggle for land and settlement on plots. The interviews showed that the gypsies organize themselves politically on the basis of social/territorial ideals, transiting between cities of the states of Minas Gerais and Goiás. At first we were under the impression that these were a nomadic people, but this proved not to be true. From the data we can infer that, within a framework of conflicts, culture shock and controlled associations and production inputs, there emerges an identity production process in which formerly nomadic and traveling gypsies settle a territory and build their identity by facing political struggle and new ways of relating to non-gypsy settlements.