3.4 Types of Diffusion

Relocation Diffusion in Argentina

Tango:

Tango originated in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires in the late 19th century. As immigrants, primarily from Europe, settled in these areas, they brought their cultural influences, which contributed to the formation of tango. Over time, tango spread through the relocation of people—immigrants, artists, and musicians—who carried the dance to other parts of Argentina and beyond. Tango eventually became a global cultural phenomenon, with its unique music and dance style influencing communities worldwide.

Expansion Diffusion in Argentina

Mate Consumption:

Mate, a traditional South American drink made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant, has experienced contagious diffusion in Argentina. Originally prevalent in the northern regions, mate consumption has spread across the country and become a national custom. Regardless of social background, mate is a ubiquitous part of Argentine daily life, demonstrating contagious diffusion.

Football Fandom:

Football, especially the intense fandom associated with local teams, has experienced hierarchical diffusion in Argentina. Major football clubs, such as Boca Juniors and River Plate, based in Buenos Aires, have a massive fan base. The influence of these clubs spreads to other regions, with fans adopting the football culture and team loyalties of the more prominent clubs.

Cumbia Music:

Cumbia music, originating in Colombia and initially associated with working-class communities, has experienced reverse-hierarchical diffusion in Argentina. It began in the outskirts of Buenos Aires among marginalized groups and gradually gained acceptance and popularity across different social strata. Today, cumbia is a widely appreciated genre in Argentina, cutting across class boundaries.

Asado Culture:

The tradition of asado, or barbecue, is deeply ingrained in Argentine culture. While it has its roots in Spanish and indigenous culinary practices, the specific techniques, cuts of meat, and social aspects of asado have been adapted and modified over time in Argentina. Different regions have added their own variations, contributing to the diverse landscape of asado practices across the country.