A Journey Through Time

Introduction

A century ago, Brazil was a nation in flux, with réis as the prevailing currency and societal shifts in full swing. In this article, we'll embark on a journey through the Brazil of the past, delving into its economic landscape, social transformations, and cultural influences that continue to shape the nation to this day.

Economic and Social Context

A hundred years ago, Brazil was home to a population of around 30 million people, a fraction of today's numbers. The country's roots in agriculture remained strong, even as urbanization began to take hold. This duality gave rise to stark social inequalities, where a significant portion of the population struggled to access basic goods.

Illiteracy and Education

The illiteracy rate at the time was staggering, reaching an astonishing 80% of the population. The education system was rudimentary and disjointed, leaving many Brazilians unable to read or write. This educational gap only further exacerbated the social and regional disparities that were evident in society.

Urban Transformations

Rio de Janeiro, the capital at the time, was dotted with historical landmarks, such as the Monroy Palace. This grand edifice housed both the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate, but its history was erased in 1976. The Church of São Sebastião dos Capuchinhos also played a crucial role in urban life until it was affected by reforms.

Progress and Publicity

Despite the inequalities, advertisements of the era sought to portray Brazil as a nation on the rise, constructing an optimistic narrative despite the challenges. Significant transformations were underway, such as the nascent automobile production in São Paulo and the burgeoning coffee production in the region.

Art, Culture, and Entertainment

Fashion was marked by accessories like hats, popular among both men and women, reflecting a transition of eras. The "Máscara" magazine critiqued the fashion of the 1920s, praising the aesthetics of the late 19th century. Music was an intrinsic part of culture, with the "Protocolo" march gaining popularity in 1921.

Sports and Entertainment

Football had already firmly entrenched itself in Brazilian culture, with state championships contested by teams like Corinthians, Palestra Itália (now Palmeiras), América Mineiro, Vasco da Gama, Flamengo, Fluminense, and Botafogo. Magazines like "Fon-Fon" highlighted notable female figures, such as actress Bebe Daniels.

Politics and Social Changes

The 1920s marked a period of political change. The election of Arthur Bernardes signaled the succession of Epitácio Pessoa as president. The country was also rocked by military revolts, culminating in the 1930 coup and ushering in the government of Getúlio Vargas.

Brazil's Contributions to Art and Science

Beyond economic and social changes, Brazil a century ago also made significant contributions to art and science. The 1922 Modern Art Week in São Paulo represented a cultural revolution that deeply influenced the national artistic scene. Figures like Oswald de Andrade, Anita Malfatti, and Mário de Andrade brought fresh perspectives to Brazilian culture.

Technological Development and Infrastructure

Technologically, Brazil witnessed important advances. The 1920s marked the start of radio broadcasting in the country, with the inauguration of the first radio station, Rádio Sociedade do Rio de Janeiro, in 1923. This advancement opened up new avenues of communication and entertainment for the population.

Conclusion

Exploring Brazil from a century ago is akin to unraveling a rich tapestry of economic, social, and cultural changes. From the educational landscape to the political arena, from fashion to technological innovation, many facets of Brazilian society underwent profound shifts. By casting a gaze upon the past, we build a sturdier understanding of the roots of today's nation, celebrating achievements and absorbing lessons from the challenges overcome.