Umbanda’s caboclo and preto-velho intermediary traditions

Record summary

During 1947–1969, Umbanda temples and publications in Brazil continued to develop ritual relationships with caboclos, pretos-velhos, crianças, exus, and other incorporating entities. These figures are not simply equivalent to Christian angels: they are culturally specific spiritual intermediaries whose roles vary by terreiro and lineage. The lead is useful for comparison because it highlights ritual embodiment, oral transmission, and religious negotiation among Indigenous, African, Spiritist, and Catholic elements. Researchers should identify a particular temple, leader, or publication before making a case-level claim, since “Umbanda” is internally diverse.