Mangarayi facts for kids
The Mangarayi (sometimes spelled Mangarai) were an Indigenous Australian group of people who lived in the Northern Territory of Australia. They are an important part of Australia's rich history and culture.
The Mangarayi Language
The Mangarrayi language is believed to be part of the Gunwingguan language family. In 1982, a linguist named Francesca Merlan wrote an important book about the grammar of the language. Another linguist, Margaret Sharpe, also studied the Mangarrayi language.
Traditional Lands
The Mangarayi people traditionally lived on about 4,500 square miles (12,000 km2) of land. This area was located along the middle and upper parts of the Roper River, reaching as far as Mount Lindsay. Their traditional country included areas east of Mataranka and Maranboy, Mount Emily, Elsey, and Beswick. The north-eastern edge of their land was near Mount Elsie.
Historical Events
In August 1875, there was a conflict involving some Mangarayi people and others along the Roper River. This event followed an incident where a telegraph worker from Daly Waters was killed in June 1875. As a result, a large group of police and other people responded, leading to significant clashes in the area.
Other Names for Mangarayi
The Mangarayi people were also known by several other names, including:
- Mangarei
- Manggarai
- Mungarai
- Mungerry
- Walooka (?)
