La fiesta de los tastoanes Author:Olga Najera-Ramirez Now available in paperback, this ethnography explores the Fiesta de los Tastoanes celebrated yearly by the citizens of Jocotan, Mexico, an ancient indigenous community near Guadalajara. The pageantry symbolically reenacts the Spanish conquest of Mexico through mock battles between Santiago, the patron saint of Spain, and the Tastoanes, the leade... more »rs of the indigenous resistance. Paradoxically, the Jocotenos also honor Santiago, their special protector, and incorporate both Christian and indigenous practices and beliefs in their celebration. The author explores what the festival means to Jocoteno culture and identity and shows how it enables them to adapt to a social order dominated by Christianity.« less