Lonko facts for kids

A lonko (sometimes spelled lonco) is a very important leader for the Mapuche people. The word "lonko" comes from the Mapudungun language, which is spoken by the Mapuche. It literally means "head." So, a lonko is like the "head" or chief of different Mapuche groups.

Lonkos were often chosen from among the ulmen, who were respected and often wealthier people within a Mapuche community, called a lof.

What is a Lonko?

A lonko is a traditional leader of the Mapuche communities in Chile and Argentina. They are like chiefs or respected elders who help guide their people. Lonkos are important for making decisions and keeping their communities strong.

Role in Peacetime

During times of peace, lonkos helped manage their communities. They would settle disagreements and make sure everyone followed Mapuche traditions. They were respected for their wisdom and experience. Each lof (a small group of Mapuche families) would usually have its own lonko.

Role in Wartime

When there was a war, the lonkos had a special role. Lonkos from different local areas, called rehue, or even larger groups, called aillarehue, would come together. They would meet in a special gathering called a koyag. This was like a big meeting or parliament.

At the koyag, the lonkos would choose a special war leader. This leader was called a toqui. The toqui was responsible for leading the Mapuche warriors in battle. This shows how lonkos worked together to protect their people.

Lonkos in Place Names

The word "lonko" is so important that it is even part of some place names. For example, the city of Loncoche in Chile gets its name from "lonco." In Mapudungun, "Loncoche" means "head of an important person." This shows how much the lonkos were respected in Mapuche culture.