A Brief History of the Gauchos The word "gaucho" was used in the regions of the River Plate, Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil, (although there the word is gaúcho) to name the horse riders of the plains or "pampas", who kept cattle. The origin of this word is not very clear. "Guahu-che" is the most popular one and means "people who sing sadly." It comes from araucano, and denotes melancholy. The Gaucho is the result of the mixture of Spanish and Aborigine blood; he started to create his own personality in the primitive vaquerías of the colonies. There he learned the tasks connected to cattle raising with a singular skill, and found his inseparable friend: the horse. He spent most of his time on horseback, which is why he hated agriculture. His indomitable value made him the basis of the South American independence. He was a shepherd in times of peace, and a soldier in times of war. The big area of the "pampas" plains finally molded his conduct. He was very free, of simple habits, leading a wandering life. That freedom which he faced in his life brought back to him much misfortune. He was excluded for a long time, but as time passes by he was popularly accepted, and the word Gaucho is now synonym of uprightness and nobility of heart. More information about the Gauchos, their way of life and their traditions will be coming here soon. Please check back! And be sure to check out soygaucho.com for even more about the history of the gauchos and their culture.