Brasil and Brasilia
Brazil is very unique. Even when talking about Latin America, Brazil is always the exception. It was a Portuguese colony and so they speak Portuguese instead of Spanish. While the surrounding countries gained independence from Spain and declared democracies or dictators, Brazil continued with their own monarchy, followed by a beloved dictator. The Portuguese settlers mixed with the Indians and African slaves to make up for the disadvantage of their tiny population.
Brazil's Capital is Brasilia, moved to a more central, inland location from the original Rio de Janeiro. Brasilia is unique because it was purposely created in a little over 3 years. It was mandated by the president of the time, Juscelino. The city is constructed in the shape of an airplane and the architecture of the city is very modern. It now serves as the principal city of the government in Brazil. The United States embassy is located near the center.
Although it is not on the sunny coast of Brazil, it is still a worth while place to visit. It was planned and built by Lúcio Costa and Oscar Niemeyer in 1956. It is far away from any colonial reminders of repression. It was also named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This was informative for me. I honestly thought that the capital of Brazil was Rio De Janeiro. I had no idea that it is Brasilia. Thanks!
ReplyDelete