Ultimos Testigos : The Last Rebellion of the Maya in Yucatan

Between 1847 and 1935 the Maya on the Yucatán peninsula rebelled against their oppression and were eventually defeated by Mexican troops. The Canadian photographer Serge Barbeau has visited the descendants of those Maya rebels. This volume reproduces in oversize format his expressive portraits documenting their desire for independence.

Between 1847 and 1935 the Maya on the Yucatán peninsula rebelled against their oppression and were eventually defeated by Mexican troops. The Canadian photographer Serge Barbeau has visited the descendants of those Maya rebels. This volume reproduces in oversize format his expressive portraits documenting their desire for independence. Serge Barbeau, who has lived in Mexico for many years, visited the descendants of those militant Maya. They continue to experience the consequences of the dispute to this day and lead a life full of economic, social and cultural disadvantages. The full-page portrait photos are full of detail and show in a moving way the traces of life which have become engraved in the faces of the portrait subjects, the oldest of whom was 107 years old. Their tales remind us of the exploitation, forced labour and the confiscation of land at the time and document the desire for independence which remains unbroken to this day. They also tell of their deep roots in their faith, which unites the Maya heritage and the Christian religion. An impressive act of homage to the Maya of Yucatán.