Mazatecs
and Chinetecs of Southern Mexico
In the
late
1940's,
the Mexican government under
from the Secretariat of Hydraulic Resources
(SRH)
advice
began
construction of two largé dams in the Paploapan Basin in
Southern Mexico.
Construction of the dams resulted in the
permanent relocation of approximately 80,000 Mazatec and
Chinantec people
(Barabas and Bartolomé,
1973).
Prior to resettlement fertile lands immediately surrounding
the eventual dam were distributed to sugar refineries,
and paper factories,
and industrial concerns which rely
heavily on hydroelectric power.
second choice.
lumber
Native groups were given
Many Mazatecs refused to move so the SRH "...
provided a taste of its power by opening the dam's floodgates"
(Barabas
and Bartolomé,
1973,
According to accounts,
p.
7).
readjustment experiences of relocated
Mazatecs were comparable if not worse than those who resisted
removal.
Ixrigation,
were denied.
electricity,
Many have no
ee
deeds
and safe,
to their
passable
lands.
roadways
Barabas
and