Getting to Know the People of Bolivia
Bolivia is a country full of a culture so rich and colorful it would not be a surprise if the locals are also as diverse as their country. Because this country is located in South America, you would expect the people in Bolivia to be as tan as other Spanish people. They do have a beautiful tan that is distinct to people in this part of the world but they have several characteristics that are distinctly Bolivian. Getting to know the people in this exotic country surely makes their country even more interesting than it already is.
Ethnic Origins and Language
More than half of the population of Bolivia consists of indigenous Native Americans which come from the ethnic groups of Quechua (30%) and Aymara (25%). The rest are mestizos and some have a mix of European and African descent. Because this country is located in South America, it is expected that Spanish is their main language. There are, however, native dialects still being spoken here by about 70 percent of its current population.
Religious Affiliations
About 95 percent of Bolivians are affiliated with Roman Catholicism. Most of the public holidays being celebrated in this country are Catholic-related feasts and commemorations. Although Bolivians attend church and follow the Catholic doctrines, they are still greatly influenced by native beliefs and rituals. The other 5 percent have converted into Evangelical Methodist religious groups as they became available to them.
Family Orientation
Just like other less fortunate countries, Bolivian families are very tightly knit. It is a common sight to see extended families still living together. They are also very traditional with regards to male and female roles in the society. Men are still regarded as the more dominant gender being the breadwinner and women are tied to domestic tasks like taking care of the children and doing household chores.
Bolivian Etiquette
There are a lot of customs and etiquette practiced in Bolivia that may be different but rather interesting to most visitors. Here are some of them:
- The most common greeting in Bolivia is the handshake. For people who are more acquainted, an embrace or a pat on the back will most likely be seen. Women, on the other hand, kiss each other’s cheek.
- When a woman in Bolivia gets married, they start to use their husband’s surname with “de” added before it. For example, after Maria Cruz marries Juan Lopez, she becomes Maria de Lopez.
- Bolivians would accept any gift except yellow and purple flowers and knives or scissors. The colors yellow and purple quite have a negative meaning for them and sharp objects means severing a relationship.
Food and Drinks
Bolivians are very fond of eating. This is apparent as you see the numerous street food stands found in most commercial areas. Their cuisine consists mostly of pork, potatoes, and corn. Even their drinks, such as the Chicha and Tojori, are made of corn. Unlike Mexican food, Bolivians are not very fond of hot and spicy food. You may find a little spice here and there but expect your meal to be a little bland.
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