| By :
Ken Ingraham
Clearly, one of the advantageous to studying a language abroad is learning about different cultures. Those who attend Spanish language schools in Peru have an excellent opportunity to live near a unique culture of indigenous people. Many people don't realize how large the indigenous population is in Peru to this very day. The fact is that these people, who have lived in the country since before its discovery by Europeans, make up approximately 45% of the country's total population. Estimates show that there are approximately 14 million indigenous people currently living in Peru. Often you will hear these people referred to as "Indios" or Indians. This is the name that they were first referred to by the early Spanish explorers as far back as in the 1500's. When the Spanish first invaded Peru, the indigenous people had over 2000 different tribes and nations. However, due to the conquest, many of these tribes were wiped out. Many of those native people who did survive ended up changing their cultural practices as a result of integration with the Europeans. Typically, it was only the groups of people living in remote areas that stayed consistent to their traditional ways. It is interesting to note that indigenous languages are still spoken in the Andes and also in the Amazon rainforest. Some of the most common languages include Quechua, Aymara, and Kawki. When you learn Spanish in Peru, you will not necessarily be living amongst the indigenous people. However, that doesn't mean that you can't learn more about their culture by exposing yourself to their ways. You may, in fact, see indigenous people right in the city of Lima. As it turns out, many people are moving to the city in recent years to try to find work. Unfortunately, these Indians tend to be amongst the city's poorest residents. The good news is that there are various organizations that are working today to preserve and defend the rights of indigenous people. For example, the AIDESEP or Interethnic Association for the Development of the Peruvian Rainforest is an organization that represents 1350 communities where indigenous people still live. If you attend Spanish schools in Lima, Peru, you will likely see crafts and artistic works made by indigenous people. Quite frequently, stores in Peru will sell textiles and crafts made by Indians. Definitely buy some of these goods if you can to support the local indigenous groups. Oftentimes these products showcase traditional skills that have been passed down over generations. Of course, you can also see these types of indigenous works in Lima's museums as well. As you learn Spanish in Peru, you will have the opportunity to learn about a wide variety of cultures and, of course, the country's traditional people. Don't miss the opportunity to explore local shops and visit museums to learn more about Peru's unique heritage. As a result of expanding your cultural awareness, you will find that at the end of your trip you have had a far more enriching overall experience.
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