Mediators, mobility and social networks of Arab immigrants in northern Patagonia (1900-1955)

Abstract

This article analyzes the relations between Syrian-Lebanese immigrants and the main mediators of their migratory experiences in the south of Río Negro and in the north of Chubut, during the first half of the 20th century. It is argued that the most important intermediaries were the Arab nationals, although there were indigenous, Creole and other nationalities who performed key mediations. The main intermediaries in the trajectories of Arab immigrants are identified, at the same time that their business networks and high mobility are partially rebuilt. The classic methodology of textual criticism of primary sources is combined with the use of tools of Geographic Information Systems and Social Network Analysis. It is concluded that the business networks of Arab immigrants were strongly cohesive within the group of nationals, articulating broad mercantile territorialities and connecting different regions. Although the Arabs could appear as a dispersed migratory group, they were able to consolidate social networks that were effective and that favored their economic accumulation.