What is the primary definition of a Honduran?

A Honduran is a citizen or native of Honduras. While most Hondurans reside in Honduras, there is a notable Honduran diaspora, with significant communities in the United States and Spain, as well as smaller groups in other countries worldwide.

What is the origin of the term 'catracho' or 'catracha' used to refer to Hondurans?

The term 'catracho' or 'catracha' for a person from Honduras originated in the mid-19th century among Nicaraguans. It evolved from the name of Honduran General Florencio Xatruch, whose Catalan surname was difficult for Nicaraguans to pronounce. After he led Honduran and Salvadoran soldiers to victory against William Walker's filibusters, Nicaraguans reportedly shouted "Here come Xatruch's boys!", which was corrupted into 'los xatruches,' then 'los catruches,' and finally settled as 'los catrachos' or 'las catrachas'.

What was the historical context of William Walker's presence in Central America, related to the origin of the term 'catracho'?

William Walker was an American filibuster who aimed to re-establish slavery and take control of Central America. General Florencio Xatruch led Honduran and Salvadoran soldiers to defeat Walker's forces, leading to the coining of the term 'catracho' in honor of Xatruch's victory.

What was the ethnic composition of Honduras prior to European colonization?

Before the European conquest, Honduras was inhabited by a diverse aboriginal population descended from various ethnic groups, including the Lencas, Payas, Chorotegas, Xicaques, Chortis, Tolupanes, Pechs, Tawahkas, and Misquitos. These groups are believed to have origins in both Mesoamerican and South American cultures and exhibited varying degrees of cultural unity and development.

What were the cultural and economic characteristics of the pre-Columbian inhabitants of Honduras?

The pre-Columbian inhabitants of Honduras, particularly those in the northwestern regions like Copán, achieved significant progress in various fields. They developed varied agriculture to ensure adequate food supplies for their populations and employed sophisticated techniques in weaving and ceramics, alongside engaging in extensive trade.

Which indigenous groups were prominent in specific regions of Honduras before the conquest?

In the northwestern part of Honduras, the Chortís, a Mayan group, were predominant in areas like Copán and Ocotepeque. The Lencas were spread across departments such as Santa Bárbara, Lempira, Intibucá, La Paz, Comayagua, Francisco Morazán, and Valle, also extending into what is now El Salvador. The remaining territories were inhabited by peoples with more nomadic or semi-nomadic cultures, including the Tolupanes (Xicaques), Pechs (Payas), Tawahkas, and Misquitos.

What are some early estimates of the indigenous population of Honduras upon the arrival of the Spanish?

Early estimates for the indigenous population of Honduras upon the arrival of the Spanish vary significantly. The Milanese traveler Girolaneo Benzoni, in his work *Historia del Nuevo Mundo*, estimated over 400,000 indigenous people. Other historians suggest a higher figure, approximating the aboriginal population at around 800,000.

What were the population figures for Honduras in the late colonial period according to official reports?

In 1801, an official report by Mayor Don Ramón de Anguiano indicated a population of 130,000 inhabitants across 249 inhabited centers. Earlier estimates from 1778 and 1791 also suggest a relatively stable population during the colonial era, with no substantial modifications observed in population behavior.

How did the population estimate change between the late colonial period and the early years of independence?

In 1816, five years before independence, Mayor Don Juan Antonio Tomos reported 110,000 inhabitants, including an estimated 10,000 Caribbean blacks near Trujillo. Following independence, the population estimate for 1826 rose to 200,000 people, based on calculations by Dionisio de Herrera. This indicates a significant increase in population growth rate after independence compared to the colonial period.

What was the estimated population of Honduras in 2017?

In 2017, Honduras had an estimated population of over 9 million people.

Which departments in Honduras were the most populous according to the 2001 Census?

According to the Honduras 2001 Census of Population, the most populous departments were Cortés and Francisco Morazán, each with approximately 1.2 million people. Other populous departments included Yoro (466,000), Olancho (420,000), Choluteca (391,000), and Comayagua (353,000).

Which departments in Honduras were the least populous according to the 2001 Census?

The least populous departments in Honduras, according to the 2001 Census, were the Bay Islands and Gracias a Dios.

What were the main cities in Honduras based on the 2001 Census data?

The main cities in Honduras, based on the 2001 Census, included Tegucigalpa (894,000 for the Central District), San Pedro Sula (517,000), Choloma (160,000), La Ceiba (140,000), and El Progreso (106,000). Other significant cities mentioned were Choluteca, Comayagua, Puerto Cortés, La Lima, and Danlí.

What were the estimated populations of the major metropolitan areas in Honduras around 2007?

Around 2007, the major metropolitan areas in Honduras were estimated to be Tegucigalpa with 1,200,000 inhabitants and San Pedro Sula with 900,000 inhabitants.

How did the population of San Pedro Sula change between the 1988 and 2001 Censuses?

Between the 1988 and 2001 Censuses, the population of San Pedro Sula doubled.

What was the ethnic composition of Honduras according to the 2013 census?

According to the 2013 census, the ethnic composition of Honduras was reported as: Mestizo (82.93%), White (7.87%), Indigenous (7.25%), Garifuna (0.74%), Black (0.65%), and Other (0.55%).

What is the predominant ethnic group in Honduras, and what is its approximate percentage?

The majority of the Honduran population is Mestizo, which is a mixture of Spanish and Amerindian ancestry. This group constitutes approximately 80% of the total population of Honduras.

What are the origins of Honduran Mestizos beyond Spanish and Amerindian ancestry?

Honduran Mestizos often have ancestry that extends beyond the traditional mixture of Spanish and Native Americans. Many also incorporate significant African ancestry, ranging from 10% to 35% on average, due to historical mixing with populations like Bay Island Creoles and the Garifuna people. Additionally, some Mestizos have ancestry from other migrant groups, such as Arabs, other European populations, and Asians.

What percentage of the Honduran population is identified as Black?

The Afro-Honduran population is estimated to be around 1-2% of the total population.

Where do most Afro-Hondurans primarily reside, and what are their origins?

Most Afro-Hondurans primarily reside along the country's Caribbean or Atlantic coast. Their origins stem from several sources, including descendants of West Indian islands and the Garifuna people, who are descendants of an Afro-Carib population that revolted against British authorities in St. Vincent and were subsequently relocated to Belize and Honduras in the 18th century.

How many indigenous groups are recognized in Honduras, and what are some of them?

Honduras recognizes seven indigenous groups, although this list also includes the Afro-Caribbean and Garifuna groups, which are not Amerindian. Some of the recognized indigenous groups are the Ch'orti' (a Mayan group), the Garifuna (speaking a Carib language), the Pech (or Paya), the Tolupan (also known as Jicaque or Tol), the Lenca, and the Miskito.

What is the approximate percentage of White Hondurans, and from where do they primarily descend?

White Hondurans, colloquially called 'cheles,' are estimated to make up between 1% and 7% of the population. Their ancestry includes early Spanish settlers, as well as immigrants from Spain, Germany, Italy, and Eastern Europe who arrived in the 19th and 20th centuries.

What does genetic research suggest about the ancestry of Hondurans?

Genetic studies indicate that Hondurans, particularly the Mestizo population, share significant genetic patterns with Spaniards and Italians, suggesting a closer approximation to European Mediterranean populations than previously thought. The studies also show a breakdown of genetic components for the general Honduran population as approximately 58.4% European, 5.4% African, and 36.2% Indigenous.

What are the genetic components of the Garifuna population in Honduras?

Genetic studies of the Garifuna population from the Caribbean coast of Honduras show a composition of approximately 26.0% European, 62.0% African, and 12.0% Indigenous ancestry.

What is the primary religious affiliation of Hondurans today?

Today, Hondurans are primarily Christian, with Catholicism being the largest denomination at 46%, followed closely by Protestants at 41%. This represents a near-equal division between the two major Christian branches.

What was the religious landscape of Honduras in the early 20th century regarding Christianity?

In the early 20th century, due to the influence of the United States, Protestants outnumbered Catholics in Honduras, constituting about two-thirds of the population, particularly in the northern regions.

What is the Dugú, and what beliefs does it incorporate?

The Dugú is the religion of the Garifuna people, which is characterized by a syncretic blend of African, Catholic, and indigenous beliefs.

What percentage of Hondurans identify as non-religious or atheist?

A survey indicated that 23% of Hondurans consider themselves without religion, with 15% identifying as non-religious and 8% identifying as atheists.

What other religious communities exist in Honduras?

Besides the predominant Christian population, Honduras hosts small communities of Jews, Muslims, and Bahá'ís.

How is the culture of Honduras described in terms of its heritage?

Honduras is characterized as a multi-ethnic and multicultural country with a rich heritage spanning over 12,000 years of history. The culture is influenced by its indigenous populations, who constitute about 8% of the population and have left their mark on the country's culture and gastronomy, as well as by the significant impact of Spanish influence.

What are some of the most popular holidays celebrated in Honduras?

Among the most popular holidays in Honduras are Independence Day on September 15, marked by parades, and the celebrations for the Virgin of Suyapa on February 3, which involves a large pilgrimage to Tegucigalpa. Holy Week is also a significant period due to the country's predominantly Catholic faith, and during Easter holidays, many people visit beaches and spas.

What is the significance of the Virgin of Suyapa in Honduran culture?

The Virgin of Suyapa is a significant religious figure in Honduras, with her feast day celebrated on February 3 each year. This day is marked by a large pilgrimage to Tegucigalpa, where people gather to venerate her.

When did cinema begin in Honduras, and who is considered the first official filmmaker?

Cinema in Honduras officially began in 1962. The first official Honduran filmmaker was Sami Kafati, who studied cinematography in Rome and produced the experimental short film 'Mi Amigo Ángel' in 1962, which is considered the first fictional cinematographic work produced in Honduras.

Who are some prominent modern Honduran filmmakers?

Some of the most prominent modern Honduran filmmakers mentioned are Hispano Duron, Rene Pauck, and Juan Carlos Fanconi.

What is the significance of Lempira in Honduran history and culture?

Lempira was a native hero of the Lenca culture who is recognized for his resistance against the Spanish conquest. His legacy is preserved through statues and historical accounts, symbolizing indigenous heritage in Honduras.

What is the significance of Francisco Morazán in Honduran history?

Francisco Morazán is highlighted as a Honduran hero, noted for his Italian-Spaniard ancestry. He played a significant role in the history of Honduras and Central America.

What is the significance of Roberto Sosa in Honduran literature?

Roberto Sosa is recognized as one of the most notable writers from Honduras, contributing to the country's literary landscape.

What is the significance of Froylán Turcios in Honduran literature?

Froylán Turcios is listed among the most notable writers from Honduras, contributing to the nation's literary heritage.

What is the significance of Juan Ramón Molina in Honduran literature?

Juan Ramón Molina is recognized as one of Honduras's most notable writers, contributing to the country's literary tradition.

What is the significance of Ramón Amaya Amador in Honduran literature?

Ramón Amaya Amador is acknowledged as one of the most significant writers from Honduras, contributing to the nation's literary output.

What is the significance of Lucila Gamero de Medina in Honduran literature?

Lucila Gamero de Medina is recognized as one of the most notable writers from Honduras, contributing to the country's literary heritage.

What is the significance of Clementina Suárez in Honduran literature?

Clementina Suárez is listed among the most notable writers from Honduras, contributing to the nation's literary tradition.

What is the significance of the Ch'orti' people in Honduras?

The Ch'orti' people are a Mayan group residing in the northwest of Honduras, near the border with Guatemala. They are one of the seven indigenous groups recognized in the country and have contributed to the nation's cultural heritage.

What is the significance of the Lenca people in Honduras?

The Lenca people are an indigenous group in Honduras, primarily inhabiting the western highlands across departments like Intibucá, Lempira, La Paz, Valle, and Choluteca. They are one of the recognized indigenous groups and have historical ties to the region.

What is the significance of the Garifuna people in Honduras?

The Garifuna people are a significant ethnic group in Honduras, residing along the Caribbean coastline and the Bay Islands. They are descendants of an Afro-Carib population and are recognized for their unique culture, religion (Dugú), and language, contributing to Honduran identity.

What is the significance of the Tolupan people in Honduras?

The Tolupan people, also known as Jicaque or Tol, are an indigenous group living in the Department of Yoro and surrounding areas, including the Montaña de la Flor reserve. They are one of the seven recognized indigenous groups in Honduras.

What is the significance of the Miskito people in Honduras?

The Miskito people are an indigenous group primarily located on the northeast coast of Honduras, along the border with Nicaragua, particularly in the Gracias a Dios department. They are one of the seven recognized indigenous groups in the country.

What is the significance of the Pech people in Honduras?

The Pech people, also referred to as Paya Indians, are an indigenous group residing in a small area within the Olancho department of Honduras. They are recognized as one of the country's seven indigenous groups.

What is the significance of the Orthodox Christian community in Honduras?

The Orthodox Christian community in Honduras is notable, primarily composed of Arab Hondurans. Over 600 families are part of the Orthodox Church of Antioch, representing a distinct religious minority within the country.

What is the cultural significance of the Virgin of Suyapa in Honduras?

The Virgin of Suyapa is a central figure in Honduran religious and cultural life, with her feast day on February 3 drawing a large pilgrimage to Tegucigalpa, demonstrating her importance to the nation's Catholic population.

What is the cultural significance of Independence Day in Honduras?

Honduras' Independence Day, celebrated on September 15, is a significant national holiday marked by widespread parades involving schools and colleges across the country. Companies also participate, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Hondurans Wiki: Honduras Unveiled: A Tapestry of People and Culture

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Who are Hondurans?

Citizens of Honduras

Hondurans, known in Spanish as Hondureños or Hondureñas, are the citizens of Honduras. The vast majority reside within the nation's borders, but a significant Honduran diaspora exists globally, with notable communities in the United States, Spain, and various other countries.

A Nation of Migrants

The Honduran population is a complex mosaic, shaped by centuries of migration and interaction. Indigenous peoples, Spanish colonizers, and later arrivals from Africa and other parts of the world have all contributed to the unique cultural and ethnic fabric of modern Honduras.

The Term "Catracho"

Origin of a Nickname

The terms catracho (masculine) and catracha (feminine) are affectionate and widely used identifiers for people from Honduras, particularly by other Latin Americans. This moniker has its roots in the mid-19th century.

The term originated with Nicaraguans referring to Honduran General Florencio Xatruch. General Xatruch led Honduran and Salvadoran soldiers against American filibusters led by William Walker, who aimed to re-establish slavery in Central America. As Xatruch's troops returned victorious, Nicaraguans attempted to cheer them, but struggled with the pronunciation of his Catalan surname. What began as "Xatruch's boys" (los xatruches) evolved into los catruches, and finally settled as los catrachos and las catrachas.

Historical Roots

Pre-Columbian Era

Prior to European colonization, the territory of modern-day Honduras was inhabited by diverse indigenous groups, including the Lencas, Payas, Chorotegas, Xicaques, and Chortis. These cultures, likely originating from both Mesoamerican and South American regions, achieved significant advancements in agriculture, crafts, and trade, demonstrating considerable cultural diversity.

Colonial Population Dynamics

Historical estimates suggest a substantial indigenous population at the time of Spanish arrival, with figures ranging from 800,000 to potentially over 400,000. During the colonial period, population counts were often estimates, with records from 1801 indicating approximately 130,000 inhabitants, plus an estimated 10,000 Caribbean blacks near Trujillo.

Post-Independence Growth

Following independence, population figures continued to be based on estimates. By 1826, the population was estimated at 200,000. Subsequent estimates, such as the one for 1850 placing the population at 350,000, suggest a varying rate of growth throughout the 19th century, influenced by political and economic factors.

Demographic Landscape

Population Distribution

As of recent estimates, Honduras's population exceeds 9 million. The most populous departments are Cortés and Francisco Morazán, each with over 1.2 million inhabitants. Major urban centers include the capital, Tegucigalpa (with its central district housing approximately 894,000), and San Pedro Sula (around 517,000), with significant populations also in Choloma, La Ceiba, and El Progreso.

Ethnic Composition

The Honduran populace is predominantly Mestizo, reflecting a historical blend of European and Indigenous ancestries. Census data indicates the following approximate breakdown:

Group	Total	%
Mestizo	6,886,470	82.93%
White	653,637	7.87%
Indigenous	601,824	7.25%
Garifuna	61,617	0.74%
Black	54,178	0.65%
Other	46,046	0.55%

Global Presence

Significant Honduran communities are found internationally. The United States hosts the largest diaspora population, numbering over 773,000. Spain follows with nearly 150,000, alongside smaller but notable populations in Mexico, Canada, Italy, Germany, and the United Kingdom, reflecting global migration patterns.

Key diaspora populations include:

United States: 773,045
Spain: 149,949 (2022)
Mexico: 38,764
Nicaragua: 13,110
El Salvador: 11,878
Belize: 9,784
Guatemala: 9,023
Canada: 8,382
Costa Rica: 4,708
Italy: 3,225
Panama: 1,797
Germany: 1,596
Switzerland: 740
United Kingdom: 694
Colombia: 690
France: 669
Netherlands: 574
Ecuador: 489
Dominican Republic: 442
Sweden: 410
Australia: 343
Belgium: 322
Peru: 311
Guinea: 285
Venezuela: 275
Bolivia: 257
Jamaica: 162
Brazil: 160
Denmark: 155
Norway: 133

Linguistic Heritage

Dominance of Spanish

The primary language spoken by Hondurans is Spanish. This linguistic legacy is a direct result of the Spanish colonial period and remains the official language, used in government, education, and daily life across most of the country.

Indigenous Tongues

Beyond Spanish, Honduras is home to several indigenous languages, reflecting its diverse pre-Columbian heritage. These include various Mayan dialects, as well as languages spoken by the Pech, Tolupan, Lenca, Miskito, and Garifuna communities, contributing to the nation's rich linguistic tapestry.

Spiritual Beliefs

Christian Majority

Christianity is the predominant religion in Honduras. Historically, Protestantism saw significant growth in the early 20th century due to U.S. influence, particularly in the northern regions. However, Catholicism has since regained prominence, with roughly equal proportions of Catholics and Protestants (around 46% Catholic and 41% Protestant) comprising the majority of the population today.

Diverse Faiths and Traditions

Honduras also hosts smaller religious communities, including Orthodox Christians, primarily among Arab immigrants. Indigenous groups often integrate elements of their traditional spiritual practices with Christianity, creating syncretic forms of worship. The Garifuna people practice a distinct religion known as Dugú, a blend of African, Catholic, and indigenous beliefs.

Indigenous Faiths: Elements of original spiritualities are often maintained, sometimes in syncretism with Christianity.
Garifuna Religion (Dugú): A unique mix of African, Catholic, and indigenous beliefs.
Christianity: Predominantly Catholic and Protestant denominations, with a notable Orthodox community.
Non-religious: Approximately 23% of the population identifies as non-religious, including atheists.
Other Religions: Small communities of Jews, Muslims, and Baháʼís are present.

Cultural Expressions

Celebrations and Traditions

Honduran culture is a vibrant amalgamation of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. Key national holidays include Independence Day on September 15th, marked by nationwide parades. Holy Week (Semana Santa) is a significant religious observance, often involving pilgrimages and family gatherings. The feast day of the Virgin of Suyapa on February 3rd is a major Catholic event, drawing pilgrims to Tegucigalpa.

Literary and Cinematic Contributions

Honduran literature boasts a rich history, with notable figures like Froylán Turcios, Juan Ramón Molina, and Roberto Sosa contributing significantly to poetry and prose. The nation's cinema, though nascent, began its official journey in 1962 with experimental short films, and contemporary filmmakers like Hispano Durón and Juan Carlos Fanconi continue to shape its narrative.

Genetic Heritage

Ancestral Mix

Genetic studies indicate that Hondurans, particularly the Mestizo population, share significant genetic patterns with European populations, notably Spaniards and Italians. This admixture extends beyond the traditional Spanish-Indigenous mix, incorporating substantial African ancestry, particularly among coastal communities like the Garifuna, and influences from other migrant groups.

Research suggests the following genetic contributions:

General Honduran Population: Approximately 58.4% European, 5.4% African, and 36.2% Indigenous ancestry.
Garifuna Population: Shows a higher proportion of African ancestry (around 62.0%), with 26.0% European and 12.0% Indigenous contributions.

These findings highlight a complex genetic landscape shaped by historical migration and intermingling.

References

Source Citations

The information presented on this page is derived from publicly available data, meticulously cited within the original source material.

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References

The Latin American Socio-Religious Studies Program / Programa Latinoamericano de Estudios Sociorreligiosos (PROLADES) PROLADES Religion in America by country

A full list of references for this article are available at the Hondurans Wikipedia page

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Honduras Unveiled

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Who are Hondurans? 🌟

🇭🇳 Citizens of Honduras

🌍 A Nation of Migrants

The Term "Catracho" 🗣️

💬 Origin of a Nickname

Historical Roots ⏳

🏛️ Pre-Columbian Era

🗺️ Colonial Population Dynamics

📈 Post-Independence Growth

Demographic Landscape 📊

👥 Population Distribution

🧬 Ethnic Composition

🌐 Global Presence

Linguistic Heritage 🗣️

🇪🇸 Dominance of Spanish

indigenous Indigenous Tongues

Spiritual Beliefs 🙏

✝️ Christian Majority

🕉️ Diverse Faiths and Traditions

Cultural Expressions 🎭

🎉 Celebrations and Traditions

📚 Literary and Cinematic Contributions

Genetic Heritage 🔬

🧬 Ancestral Mix

References 📚

🔗 Source Citations

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Who are Hondurans?

Citizens of Honduras

A Nation of Migrants

The Term "Catracho"

Origin of a Nickname

Historical Roots

Pre-Columbian Era

Colonial Population Dynamics

Post-Independence Growth

Demographic Landscape

Population Distribution

Ethnic Composition

Global Presence

Linguistic Heritage

Dominance of Spanish

Indigenous Tongues

Spiritual Beliefs

Christian Majority

Diverse Faiths and Traditions

Cultural Expressions

Celebrations and Traditions

Literary and Cinematic Contributions

Genetic Heritage

Ancestral Mix

References

Source Citations

Teacher's Corner

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References

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