Puerto Rican Folkloric Dance
Puerto Rican Tradition - Peleas de Gallos
by Dr. Tekina-eiru Maynard (2008)
Peleas de Gallos (cock fights) have their place in Puerto Rican folklore,
and are still a popular sport in Puerto Rico today. Brought to the Island by Spanish
immigrants in the 16th century, Peleas de Gallos were declared a sport
by the spanish governor Miguel de Muesas in 1770. Considered a "sport of gentlemen,"
where all bets are honored, Peleas de Gallos enjoyed some history as an
underground event after the 1898 American invasion prohibited the sport. Senator
Rafael Martinez-Nadal, third president of the Senate of Puerto Rico, and
known as the father of cock's law, legalized the games once again in 1933.
The 10th biggest industry on the island when it comes to revenues, there are
approximately 120 galleras (fighting pits) in Puerto Rico still today, the oldest
one in the Caribbean located in Vega Alta where a cock festival is celebrated
every October with kiosks, crafts, a dominoes tournament, and a talent show.
References
The Puerto Rican Bloodsport: A Look At Cock Fights On The Island, Brenda A. Mari, Puerto Rico Herald, April 8, 2005
Cock fights in Puerto Rico, a little bit of history, Photos of Puerto Rico.com.
For more information:
Dr. Ana María Tekina-eirú Maynard
Puerto Rican Cultural Center
Cultural Center Address: 701 Tillery Street #13, Austin TX 78702-3738 (Map & Directions)
Mailing Address: 15228 Quiet Pond Court, Austin TX 78728-4555
Phone: +1.512.251.8122
Email: dance@prfdance.org
Web: www.prfdance.org
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