Aymara language facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Aymara |
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| Aymar aru | |
| Native to | Bolivia, Peru and Chile. |
| Ethnicity | Aymara people |
| Native speakers | (1.8 million in Bolivia cited 1987) 660,000 in Peru (2000–2006) |
| Language family |
Aymaran
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Geographic Distribution of the Aymara language
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The Aymara language is spoken by the Aymara people. You can find Aymara speakers mainly in Bolivia, Peru, and the northern parts of Chile. In Chile, about one-third of the Aymara people speak the language well. Aymara is special because it is one of the few Native American languages still spoken by over one million people today.
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Where Aymara is Spoken
Aymara is an important language in the Andes region of South America. Most speakers live in Bolivia, where it is one of the official languages. You will also find many Aymara speakers in southern Peru and northern Chile. The language helps connect the Aymara people across these countries.
Aymara Speakers Today
Millions of people speak Aymara. In Bolivia, about 1.8 million people speak it. In Peru, around 660,000 people use Aymara. These numbers show that Aymara is a strong and living language. It is passed down through families and communities.
Language Family and Features
Aymara belongs to the Aymaran language family. This family includes a few other languages, but Aymara is the largest. It is an "inflected language." This means that words change their endings to show different meanings. For example, the ending of a verb might change to show who is doing the action.
Unique Sounds and Grammar
Aymara has some interesting sounds that are different from English. It also has a unique grammar structure. For example, it uses a "subject-object-verb" word order. This means the sentence usually starts with who is doing something, then what they are doing it to, and finally the action itself.
Aymara Culture and History
The Aymara language is deeply connected to the Aymara people's rich culture and history. For centuries, the Aymara people have lived in the Andes mountains. Their language helps preserve their traditions, stories, and knowledge. It is a key part of their identity.
Preserving the Language
Efforts are being made to keep the Aymara language strong. Schools in Bolivia and Peru teach Aymara. There are also books, radio programs, and even websites in Aymara. These efforts help new generations learn and use the language. This ensures Aymara continues to thrive.
Images for kids
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This map shows where Aymara is spoken in three southern departments of Peru: Puno, Moquegua, and Tacna.
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This image shows the Declaration of Independence of the United Provinces of South America (which is now Argentina). It is written in both Spanish and Aymara.
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This is a copy of the Book of Mormon translated into the Aymara language.
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See also
In Spanish: Idioma aimara para niños
