From the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), The World Factbook, Brazil, Introduction, Background:
“Following more than three centuries under Portuguese rule, Brazil gained its independence in 1822, maintaining a monarchical system of government until the abolition of slavery in 1888 and the subsequent proclamation of a republic by the military in 1889. Brazilian coffee exporters politically dominated the country until populist leader Getulio Vargas rose to power in 1930…
“By far the largest and most populous country in South America, Brazil continues to pursue industrial and agricultural growth and development of its interior. Having successfully weathered a period of global financial difficulty in the late 20th century, under President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (2003-2010) Brazil was seen as one of the world's strongest emerging markets and a contributor to global growth. The awarding of the 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympic Games, the first ever to be held in South America, was symbolic of the country's rise.”
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Sources: United States data are based on official estimates and projections. All population estimates and projections are for the resident population. Population estimates for 2010-2019 are consistent with the 2010 Census. Population data in the IDB for 2020-2060 are based on the 2017 National Projections. The U.S. population components shown in the IDB may not match the official population components for the United States due to differences in how they are displayed (calendar year versus midyear-to-midyear estimates). Revised official population estimates are released each year (https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest.html). Therefore, the U.S. population estimates (official compared with IDB) may not match due to differences in the timing of their release.
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FAQs
On September 7, 1822, Prince Dom Pedro declared Brazil's independence from Portugal, founding the Empire of Brazil, which led to a two-year war of independence. Formal recognition came with a treaty signed by both Brazil and Portugal in late 1825.
What happened on September 7th 1822? ›
On September 7, 1822, Prince Pedro proclaimed Brazilian independence, after having been under rule by the Portuguese Empire since the year 1500. Between late 1821 and early 1822, the War of Independence of Brazil began, and lasted for two years.
What happens on Independence Day in Brazil? ›
Independence Day is a national holiday marked by patriotic displays and military parades in most Brazilian cities. In Brasília, the national celebration takes place at the Ministries Esplanade with a civil-military parade in the presence of the President of Brazil, who is Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces.
Who did Brazil gain independence from in 1822? ›
“Following more than three centuries under Portuguese rule, Brazil gained its independence in 1822, maintaining a monarchical system of government until the abolition of slavery in 1888 and the subsequent proclamation of a republic by the military in 1889.
Why did Portugal give up Brazil? ›
The events leading to Brazil's independence started in Europe. Emperor Napoleon of France invaded Portugal and Spain in 1807 and 1808. The Portuguese rulers fled from Lisbon, Portugal, to Brazil. Brazil was a Portuguese colony in the New World.
When did Brazil abolish slavery? ›
On May 13th 1888, Brazil became the last nation in the Western Hemisphere to formally abolish slavery. One-hundred and twenty years later, it is estimated that 25,000 to 40,000 workers are still victims of conditions analogous to slavery in this South American country.
Who colonized Brazil? ›
The colonization of Brazil was the result of the Portuguese desire to expand their maritime empire. Portuguese colonists were accompanied by an influx of disease, religious conflict, and the enslavement of natives. Later, large numbers of African slaves were brought to Brazil.
How did Brazil get its name? ›
The official Portuguese name of the land, in original Portuguese records, was the "Land of the Holy Cross" (Terra da Santa Cruz), but European sailors and merchants commonly called it the "Land of Brazil" (Terra do Brasil) because of the brazilwood trade.
Who found Brazil? ›
Brazil was officially "discovered" in 1500, when a fleet commanded by Portuguese diplomat Pedro Álvares Cabral, on its way to India, landed in Porto Seguro, between Salvador and Rio de Janeiro.
How did Brazil become Portuguese? ›
In April 1500, Brazil was claimed for Portugal on the arrival of the Portuguese fleet commanded by Pedro Álvares Cabral. The Portuguese encountered stone-using natives divided into several tribes, many of whom shared the same Tupi–Guarani language family, and fought among themselves.
The prince regent of Portugal at the time, John of Braganza, had formally governed the country on behalf of his mother, queen Maria I of Portugal, since 1799. Anticipating the French invasion, John ordered the transfer of the Portuguese royal court to Brazil before he could be deposed.
What is Brazil popular for? ›
It is most well known for its dense forests, including the Amazon, the world's largest jungle, in the north. But there are also dry grasslands (called pampas), rugged hills, pine forests, sprawling wetlands, immense plateaus, and a long coastal plain.
What happens in Brazil in September? ›
Events and festivals in September
Independence Day (Dia da Independência), September 7: Parades, concerts, and patriotic events across the country mark Brazil's Independence Day. Celebrations are especially colorful in major cities such as Brasilia, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo.
Who became the emperor of Brazil in 1822? ›
He was declared the Emperor of Brazil in October 1822 (Macaulay, 87-126). Pedro I retained considerable power under the Constitution he enacted in 1824. He is frequently summed up by the expression, “I will do everything for the people, but nothing by the people” (Macaulay, 213).
Why did the Brazil riots start? ›
Background. The protests were motivated by the false belief that the 2022 Brazilian general election suffered from widespread electoral fraud causing Jair Bolsonaro's loss. During his presidency, Bolsonaro fueled distrust in the electoral system of Brazil.
