Kikapu - Kinship



Kin Groups and Descent. The Kikapu kinship system is based on patrilineal clans. These clans underlie a system in which name-groups are not unilineal. Clan affiliation is determined through the affiliation of the donor who provides the personal name for an individual.

Kinship Terminology. Cousin terms are of the Omaha type. Kin solidarity is more important to the Kikapu than genealogical relationship. The Kikapu have three names. One is given by the donor to determine specific clan affiliation. Another name is given during baptism and used only after death, and the last is a Spanish name—the surname of the individual's father.


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