Nacionalizando memorias periféricas: conmemoraciones y nacionalismo chileno en las regiones

This article examines the role of commemorations as socializing devices for Chilean nationalism between 1879 and 1910 in the Antofagasta and Tarapaca regions, incorporated into the Chilean state after the War of the Pacific (1879-1884). The study analyzes local commemorations associated to the war in the capital cities of both provinces, such as February 14 in Antofagasta and May 21 in Iquique, as well as the official commemoration of the Chilean state on September 18. Special attention is granted to the ritual display aiming at nationalizing the celebratory calendar of the former Bolivian and Peruvian provinces, “Chileanizing” and homogenizing its regional memories. Key words: commemorations, nationalism, War of the Pacific, Antofagasta, Tarapaca.