Gê, << zhay, >> are one of the largest Native American tribes in Brazil. The Gê tribes include the Apinaye, Canela, Gavioes, Kaingang, Kayapo, Kraho, Krikati, Panara, Suya, Tapayuna, Xabriaba, Xavante, Xerente, and Xokleng.
Unlike many other indigenous (native) groups, the Gê traditionally did not wear clothes or make pottery or canoes. Gê men hunted deer, anteaters, and armadillos. Women gathered plants and raised potatoes and yams.
The Gê traditionally had a highly complex social system and ceremonial life. Men and women painted their bodies with red-and-black patterns to indicate each person’s social position or ceremonial role. Villages were circular with a plaza in the center surrounded by beehive-shaped houses. Women owned the households. Upon marriage, a man moved into his wife’s house. Men were responsible for political and ceremonial activities, which took place in the plaza.
Some Gê continue to practice their traditional ways today. However, most live on reservations or have settled at trading posts and missions.
