Estimation and structure of rural Mapuche families’ income in peri-urban areas of Temuco, Chile

Abstract

Until the middle of the twentieth century, Mapuche farming families derived most of their income from agriculture. Today their sources of income are diversified, incorporating wages, government transfers and non-agricultural activities. With data provided by an income survey, this paper analyzes the income strategies of Mapuche families living in peri-urban areas of the city of Temuco, relating the structure of their income to characteristics of families and their farms. The results show the continuing importance of agriculture in families whose labor force is only able to insert itself in low-wage temporary employment.