Rankulche in Argentina

Introduction / History

The Rankulche, also known as the Ranquel, are an indigenous people of Argentina primarily located in the provinces of La Pampa and San Luis. Their name derives from the Mapudungun words rankül (cane) and che (people), meaning "cane people." Historically, they were part of a larger cultural network that included the Puelche, Pehuenche, and Patagones, and were later assimilated into the Mapuche cultural sphere.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, the Rankulche controlled two chiefdoms and lived as nomadic hunters across the Pampas. They fiercely resisted colonization, notably during the Desert Campaign led by Juan Manuel de Rosas in 1833. Their last chief, Pincén, was captured in 1880, and the tribe suffered significant population loss during the Conquest of the Desert. A reservation, Colonia Emilio Mitre, was later established in La Pampa, where many descendants still reside.

In recent years, efforts have been made to restore their ancestral lands. In 2007, the government of San Luis returned 2,500 hectares to the Rankulche, and in 2009, the "Pueblo Ranquel" settlement was inaugurated, featuring homes, a school, and a hospital designed to reflect traditional tolderías (villages). Their traditional language has been replaced by Spanish.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Modern Rankulche communities live in rural areas and face challenges related to land rights, cultural preservation, and economic development. Their lifestyle blends traditional practices with contemporary adaptations. Many engage in agriculture, livestock raising, and artisanal crafts such as weaving and silverwork. Cultural expressions like music, dance, and oral storytelling remain central to community life.

The design of Pueblo Ranquel, with circular housing arrangements and communal spaces, reflects a revival of traditional spatial and social organization. This initiative has helped strengthen community bonds and cultural identity among the Rankulche people.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Rankulche traditionally practiced a tribal religion rooted in animism and reverence for nature. Over time, many converted to Christianity, particularly folk Catholicism, which blends Catholic rituals with indigenous spiritual practices. Today, nearly three-fourths identify as Christian, with a small but significant Evangelical minority.

Religious syncretism is common, with traditional beliefs coexisting alongside Christian teachings. Ceremonies such as the Nguillatún, a ritual of thanksgiving and prayer for rain and harvest, continue to be practiced, often infused with Christian elements.

What Are Their Needs?

Spiritual discipleship and biblical teaching are needed to help believers grow in their faith and discern biblical truth amidst syncretic practices.

Legal recognition and protection of ancestral lands remain a priority. Although some land has been returned, many communities still face uncertainty and lack formal titles.

Cultural preservation and education are essential. Revitalizing the Mapudungun language and traditional customs can strengthen identity and intergenerational continuity.

Prayer Points

Pray for spiritual renewal among Rankulche Christians, that their faith may be rooted in Scripture and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Ask God to raise up indigenous leaders and teachers who can disciple others in culturally relevant ways.
Intercede for reconciliation between Rankulche communities and broader Argentine society.
Pray for the protection and restoration of ancestral lands, and for justice in land disputes.
Lift up efforts to preserve and teach the Mapudungun language, that it may be a tool for cultural and spiritual revival.

Text Source:   Joshua Project