Miskitu Identity in the Rio Platano Biosphere Reserve, Honduras

Abstract

This article examines how Miskito individuals construct their ethnic identity in the inter-ethnic relations of the Rio Platano Biosphere Reserve, an internationally designated protected area in Honduras. The field research focuses on the ethnic terms of reference and stereotypes that Miskito speakers use to distinguish between themselves and Others. The presented data illustrate the situations in which Miskito individuals manipulate cultural markers to define themselves as "Sambos" (stressing their Black ancestry) or "Indians" (stressing their Amerindian ancestry). Conclusions suggest that the Miskito people's ability to construct situational ethnic identities during social interactions, while remaining essentially Miskito, may be a key factor in the success of their population group within and beyond the reserve.