CIRCULATION OF LETTERS, MIGRATIONS AND DISPLACEMENTS: THE CASE OF WOMEN FROM THE ALTO SERTÃO DA BAHIA - BRAZIL (1901-1950)

Abstract

In this article, we analyze a collection of letters written during the first half of the 20th century by Anna Spínola Teixeira (1864-1944) and by her six daughters, who she had with Deocleciano Pires Teixeira (1844-1930): Evangelina Spínola Teixeira (1886 - 1965), Celsina Spínola Teixeira (1887 - 1979), Hersília Spínola Teixeira (1891 - 1968), Leontina Spínola Teixeira (1896 - 1978), Angelina Spínola Teixeira (1905 - 1982) and Carmen Spínola Teixeira (1909) - 2002). In an estimated total of 2185 letters (sent and received), we consulted mainly those sent. For this text, we analyzed a total of 27 letters with the aim of discussing the fluency of this type of document for the understanding of elements that go beyond private matters, focusing on the processes of migration and circulation through the territory. We understand that, for wealthy families, migrations and displacements took place by choice and, when motivated by necessity, it was justified to have access to higher levels of schooling; we also identified migration outside their own control, due to the economic and patrimonial interests of their families.