Yanamamo

A semi-nomadic Native South American people, numbering approximately 22,000 (9,500 in northern Brazil and the rest in Venezuela), where most continue to follow their traditional way of life. The Yanamamo language belongs to the Macro-Chibcha family. In November 1991 Brazil granted the Yanamami possession of their original land, 58,395 km/36,293 sq mi on its northern border.

The language is divided into several dialects, although there is a common ritual language. Together with other Amazonian peoples, the Yanamami have been involved in trying to conserve the rainforest where they live. Gold prospectors on their territory in Brazil have caused environmental damage and spread new diseases, such as measles, malaria, yellow fever, tuberculosis, and AIDS.