Commercial policies in frontier reductions: Models, reappropriations and disputes (Río de la Plata, 18th century)

Abstract

The aim of this paper is an analysis of the commercial policy implemented by the colonial bureaucracy on the Guarani Reductions, also the adaptations, responses and conflicts this process originated. The historical sources are analyzed from an anthropological perspective. First, the colonial commercial policies applied on the Guarani missions are put in context. Second, the controversies within the colonial administration are interpreted. Finally, indications of indigenous participation in this trade is described. The bias found in the official documents is a limitation of this study. Its value, however, lies in an analysis which brings together regulations, conflicts and indigenous agency. It is concluded that the political mediation designed to hinder the missionary population’s free access to the new commercial system had the opposite effect.

Keywords

• burocracia borbónica
• prácticas mercantiles
• reducciones guaraníes
• fronteras de Río de la Plata.