Abstract

PARADA-ULLOA, MARCOS. The Economic and Missionary Influence of the Jesuit Estates in the Itata Valley, Chile (1612-1697). memorias [online]. 2024, n.52, pp.33-55.  Epub Apr 23, 2024. ISSN 1794-8886.  https://doi.org/10.14482/memor.52.369.741.

This article focuses on the impact of Jesuit estates in the Itata Valley from 1612, with the onset of the defensive war, until 1697, the year the Colegio de Naturales de Chillán was established, emphasizing how strategic land acquisition bolstered the economic robustness of the order in the region. Furthermore, it investigates the Jesuits' significant role in evangelizing local indigenous communities. Employing an interpretive approach and an in-depth case study, the analysis unveils the modes of acquisition, geographic location, and territorial extent of the Jesuit estates, as well as the advanced agricultural practices they employed. Analytical categories include the dynamics of interaction between the Spanish and indigenous peoples, the socioeconomic influence of the estates on local society, and specific missionary efforts related to evangelization.

Keywords : Jesuits; defensive war; Itata Valley; economic and missionary activities; Chile.

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