ABSTRACT
Guaraní is the generic name for one of the most widespread ethnic groups in South America. Since the fourteenth century, the Guaraní have inhabited the eastern region of what is now Paraguay and adjacent areas of Brazil and Argentina. Interbreeding between Spaniards and Guaraníes occurred during the colonization period, and by the end of the eighteenth century a well-established mestizo population existed. Modern Paraguay still claims a strong Guaraní heritage and it is the largest bilingual country in Latin America. Since the middle of this century, political and economic conditions have brought about the emigration of increasing numbers of Paraguayans, particularly to Argentina.
