# Korubo
Who / What
The **Korubo** are an indigenous people of Brazil belonging to the Panoan language family. They are also known as **Dslala** (their endonym) and historically referred to as *caceteiros* ("clubbers"), referencing their traditional use of clubs in hunting.
Background & History
The Korubo live in the lower Vale do Javari region of the western Amazon Basin, an area largely uncontacted until recent decades. Their history is tied to isolation within the Amazon, with minimal external interaction prior to the late 20th century. Key milestones include their first documented contact by Brazilian explorer **Sydney Possuelo** in October 1996 and subsequent research by journalist **Paul Raffaele**, which brought international attention to their existence.
Why Notable
The Korubo are notable for their cultural preservation amidst ongoing threats from deforestation, illegal mining, and encroachment. Their uncontacted status makes them a focal point in discussions about indigenous rights, environmental protection, and the risks of forced contact. Their research by Possuelo and Raffaele has contributed to broader awareness of uncontacted tribes globally.
In the News
As of recent years, the Korubo remain largely isolated but face escalating pressures from illegal activities in their homeland. Ongoing monitoring and advocacy efforts aim to protect their way of life while addressing the growing threats posed by deforestation and human encroachment in the Amazon Basin.
