“Ser carroceiro é correria”: vida carroceira a partir do bairro COHATRAC, em São Luís – MA

Abstract

This dissertation analyzes the knowledge and practices associated with the activities of "carroceiros" (donkey cart drivers) in the city of São Luís, Maranhão. Their ways of life within the urban setting underpin what I have termed " vida carroceira” (donkey cart driver life) encompassing how they engage in remunerative activities, move around neighborhoods, shoulder family responsibilities, and establish bonds with the equines used in their routes. This work presented the context in which they operate, originating from the COHATRAC neighborhood, a space characterized by constant construction and build renovations. Donkey Cart drivers develop their routines and strategies, establish circuits (Magnani, 2014) between neighborhoods and guarantee a "busy day". In this context, I explored their conceptions of

freedom and the challenges they encounter in their daily lives, analyzing movements of self- identification as "carroceiros," involving choices to stay engaged or disengage from donkey

cart driver’s activities. This research revealed that the São Luís context generates significant demand for the services of “carroceiros”, and these workers still play a crucial role throughout the city.