Abstract

The results of the research on matrimonial practices in the Aymara community of northern Chile are presented. The purpose of this was to know the evolution of gender relations in the context of the processes of change that two communities have experienced. These communities are located in the highlands of the border with Bolivia. Based on the analysis of data collected in two periods of field work (1982-1985 and 2014-2016), it is considered three dimensions: the prescription of marriage, the ceremony that legitimizes the conjugal unit, and the "chacha-warmi" institution, as a system of rules that regulates husband-wife relationships. The results indicate that, despite greater flexibility in the composition of the couple, the man's parents have greater authority; and while rituals have been simplified, they continue legitimizing the subordinate position of women; and finally, results indicates that the migration of families to other cities modify but does not eliminate the principles that guide the practices of the conjugal couple based on the dominance of men and what is masculine.