Toqui

Toqui (or Toki) (Mapudungun for axe or axe-bearer) is a title conferred by the Mapuche (an indigenous Chilean and Argentinian[1] people) on those chosen as leaders during times of war.

The toqui commanded strict obedience of all the warriors and their loncos during the war, would organize them into units and appoint leaders over them.

This command would continue until the toqui was killed, abdicated (Cayancaru), was deposed in another parliament (as in the case of Lincoyan, for poor leadership), or upon completion of the war for which he was chosen.

The greatest of the Toqui was the older Paillamachu, who developed the strategy, patiently organized and trained his forces and then with his two younger Vice Toqui, Pelantaro and Millacolquin, carried out the Great Revolt of 1598–1604 which finally expelled the Spanish from Araucania.

The following Mapuche leaders were at some time named as toquis:[2] † Killed in battle or †† executed for rebellion or @ assassinated.