ON
BRAZIL
1. Standing 2,300 feet into the sky and with arms wide open, the statue of “Christ the Redeemer” offers a sincere welcome to both locals and visitors from around the world. The figure of Christ is not only a symbol of Christianity, but a cultural icon for the people of Brazil. With the world’s 8th largest economy, a population of 205 million people and an average of five million annual visitors, Brazil offers a broad range of resources, history and culture to learn from.1 In a few months Rio De Janiero will offer people from around the world the opportunity to learn about Brazilian culture as they host the 2016 Summer Olympics. In order to achieve a better understanding of Brazil’s culture, this background paper …show more content…
Prior to the creation of Christ the Redeemer or the celebration of Carnival, the early periods of Brazil consisted of Tupian speaking Indians. The Tupian- speaking Indians played a significant role in creating the culture that exist today.2 Portugal also played a significant role when they set sail for a new world, landing on this new land. Unfortunately, early Portuguese explorers brought with them many diseases which would devastate the Tupian population. This new land would be named “Vera Cruz” or True Cross. However, due to the large amounts of brazil wood discovered on this new land, the name would eventually be changed. The history of Brazil goes back as far as 9000 BC. The history of this country continues to be spread from one generation to another through folkloric tales, beliefs and customs.3 Some of these customs are celebrated in large events like Carnival. Other pieces of history are told through word of mouth with family and friends. In addition, many myths contain mythical creatures which typically account for historical events, traditions and morals from the past with a modern influence. From the early years of 1500 until the 1930’s Brazil relied heavily on the production of primary products eventually becoming the world’s largest sugar …show more content…
According to the U.S. Department of State, “The United States and Brazil traditionally have enjoyed robust political and economic relations”.6 Each year both the United States and the Brazilian Navy partake in an annual multinational exercise (UNITAS Atlantic), intended to provide participating military forces the chance to test their naval capabilities as a multinational force. The annual exercise not only demonstrates the capabilities of the U.S. military, but the commitment to build strong relationships with partner forces.7 In addition, the United States and Brazil are the two largest economies in the Western Hemisphere.9 It’s also important to note that as of 2011 Brazil is the eight largest goods trading partner for the United States. 9 Strengthening the relationship between the U.S, and Brazil would support the U.S economy. As of 2011, the total goods exported to Brazil was $63 billion USD along with sustaining 300,000 American