Originally, the Muras were a Brazilian indigenous group living in the area of the lower Amazon, Solimões, Madeira, Autaz, Baetas, Marmelos, Mataurá, Aripuanã and Canumã.

These natives became known as “privateers of the waterways”, as they lived in their canoes and made the latter their home. This group was also characterized by their ability to resists the invasion of the non-natives, and are always remembered as fierce warriors. Besides their bravery and physical strength, the Muras were always considered dangerous foes who knew unique battle tactics.

Specializing in leading a nomadic life and moving small groups around, the Muras were always depicted as barbaric natives, or “pirates”. All the characteristics that tied this group to battles and elusive behavior stood out even more because those people did not perform activities like agriculture and weaving, besides not organizing themselves into villages.

The members of this group soon earned the reputation of nomadic fishermen. They lived in families or small groups that wandered along the edges of rivers and lakes where there were plenty of fish and turtles. Except for fishing and hunting, these natives did not do any other activity or art practiced by other native peoples.

The resistance they put up against colonial expeditions, added to their frequent attacks on commercial boats, gave the Muras the status of a "threat to colonial interests". Feared for their behavior and strength in battle, these natives ended up becoming the target of several attacks whose purpose was to decrease their numbers or even exterminate them.