Land, lineage, traditions, and legacies
During the Spanish colonial period (1668-1898), persons of mixed African and Spanish ancestry were known to the Spaniards as mulatos. They were mostly hired for labor in the Carribean and American colonies.
Mulatos and Negros Read Post »
Che’lu is a Chamorro term for a sibling; brother or sister. Mañe’lu is the plural form of che’lu, referring to more than one sibling.
Che’lu/Mañe’lu: Siblings Read Post »
Derived from the Spanish term “soltera” for an unmarried female and “soltero” for an unmarried male, the Chamorized terms “sottera” and “sotteru” are used to describe youngsters once they have reach puberty.
Sottera/Sotteru: Teenagers Read Post »
Freycinet also noted that an examination of CHamoru words and phrases supports the idea that the islanders were knowledgeable about astronomy and maritime arts. For instance CHamorus had names for the stars.
Ancient CHamoru Calendar Read Post »
Rice was an important ceremonial food during ancient times in the Mariana Islands. At a wedding party, which usually took place in the morning at the bride’s parent’s house, her mother presented the bride to the groom and the couple was officially married.
Hineksa’ Nina’i: Gift of Rice Read Post »
A precise understanding of Chamorro/CHamoru concepts or designations requires a fundamental understanding of the Chamorro worldview, inafa’maolek, which is a social practice of interdependence and cooperation or of “being kind and good to one another.”
Ninana: Motherhood Read Post »
Santa Marian Kamalen, also known as Our Lady of Camarin, is the patron saint of Guam. The 300-year-old Santa Marian Kamalen statue is a revered icon, and although its origins are unknown, they are explained through oral tradition.
Santa Marian Kamalen Read Post »
In CHamoru society, events that celebrate life from beginning to end are interwoven into the traditions of the Catholic Church, and are celebrated to demonstrate faith and love in God, and belief in the unity and strength of the family. These events are rooted in the CHamoru tradition and identity – together, the familia and the church sponsor these events.
Hale’ta: CHamoru Cultural Traditions Read Post »
First used in the 16th Century. Inscribed on the Great Seal of Guam are the words “Tano I’ ManChamorro,” or Land of the Chamorros/CHamorus.
Origin of CHamoru as an Ethnic Identifier Read Post »
In the long ago past, there were no fiestas. What was practiced were gatherings of clans to celebrate special events such as harvesting of a good crop, clan contests, special village events to craft a canoe, a hut building, gupot åtof or just congregating to chant and dance, tell stories and legends, to give genealogy lessons, or just getting together to socialize and have fun.
