Introduction: The Problem and Method

Abstract

The Indian problem in Peru, it has often been said, is in large measure also the Andean problem. Indeed, to think of the Quechua and Aymará Indians apart from their eroded earth, their ancient mountains and their windswept altipiano (high plateau) is like thinking of an island society separated from the sea, the centre and source of much of its culture. With their hard jutting cheekbones, eyes like quiet lakes, thick firm lips and large hooked noses, Indian faces seem to express, in their deep sorrow, resignation and futility, their history of conquest, extirpation and exploitation, and their unending struggle against the elements.