Chamorro Culture
Karabao: Water Buffalo
Karabao or carabao are water buffalo introduced to Guam from the Philippines during the Spanish occupation (1668 – 1898) for farming. In and since colonial
Chamorro Culture
Peninsulares
Two terms were used to differentiate the origin of the Spaniards residing In the 19th century colonial Philippines. A Spaniard born in Spain was referred
Chamorro Culture
Natural
Spanish administrative term. This name is given to the primitive Indians with whom the Spaniards settled the peace agreements, although their descendants had mixed by
Chamorro Culture
Mestizo (Mestisu)
During Spanish colonial rule in the Marianas, the term mestizo (mestisu in CHamoru) referred to a person of mixed parentage. In its original context, as
Ancient Guam Era
Manåmko’
Manåmko’ is a Chamorro/CHamoru word which means the elderly. Manåmko’ can be translated into two words: The main word or subject is amko meaning elderly,
Ancient Guam Era
Ko’lao yan Fattoigue: Custom of Bringing a Gift of Food
The term ko’lao yan fattoigue refers to the customary practice of bringing food to someone with whom you are visiting. Oftentimes, the visitor and the
Guinahan Famagu’on: Children’s Wealth
Commonly translated as “children’s wealth,” guinahan famagu’on refers to a type of traditional turtle shell valuable, or ålas, used in the highly reciprocal lifestyle of
Ancient Guam Era
Ålas: Turtle Shell Ornaments
The term ålas (derived from the Spanish term alhajas, which means jewelry) refers to turtle shell valuables used within the highly reciprocal associations of the
Chamorro Culture
Chenchule’: Social Reciprocity
Chenchule’ refers to the intricate system of social reciprocity at the heart of ancient and contemporary CHamoru society. Chenchule’ is a support system of exchange
Ancient Guam Era
Warfare
Early European accounts of ancient Chamorro/CHamoru warriors marveled at their strength, skill and fearsome weapons. According to one missionary, CHamorus were amongst the strongest of