Citizenship and Rights in the New Republics Reflection
After reading the translation of “The Fetishist Animism of the Bahian Blacks” (I was disappointed to not find an original version), I definitely got a new perspective on how former slaves were treated in the late 19th century and early 20th century in Latin America. I did already know that racism in the region was very much present at the time (and still is, to this day), but what I was not aware was the extent of the scientific works being published to justify racism. In the specific case of the reading, the author discusses how the religious syncretism present in the state of Bahia is evidence that, in reality, the Africans continue to perform their “dark magic” rituals, and as such, claims it as evidence that they are inferior to those of white color because they “can’t comprehend” a monotheistic religion.
To me it was interesting to hear that because in school I was taught about the specific case of the religious syncretism that occurred with the Candomblé religion and Christianity, and some of the saints that the slaves would worship, but secretly worshipping them as their own gods. But to hear a “scholar” claim it to be evidence for their inferiority to the white man was hurtful (to say the least), and not just for the Candomblé religion, but a large aspect of Brazil’s culture as well.
Hey Daniel, I also thought the “Fetishist Animism of the Bahian Blacks” was interesting. The article felt almost paternal to me — like a father justifying a child’s actions because they don’t know any better. I thought it showed a shift in Europeans viewing Africans and indigenous people as savages more to people who could learn new things and be taught “the right way.” But I’m not sure, what do you think?
I also really liked the point you brought up about how a scholar could also be incredibly racist, it showed me how deep the roots of bigoted thinking are; even with people who you think would not prescribe to those ideals. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Angela
It is crazy to read a ‘scholar’s’ interpretation of these religions presented in a way that is supposed to be fact when it’s obviously so opinionated, based on false science and biased. Yet it was probably influential and taken as fact because it’s a scholarly piece!
I also found it almost painful to read the “scientific” reasoning behind considering the African people and religion so belittled. He made no effort to show respect towards others beliefs which is horrible coming from someone suppose to be educated.