Brazil culture celebrates diversity

The main influence upon the Brazil culture comes from the culture of Portugal due to the ties of the empire that spread its language, legal system and other inheritances of the culture. In addition to the country of Portugal and its influence, the African and Amerindian peoples such as the Guarani and the Tupi were incorporated in the Brazil culture to create a multiethnic and multicultural society very different from any of the individual strands.  .

As a Portuguese colony for over 300 years, large numbers of the early European settlers came to live and become part of the current society.  Over one million Portuguese immigrated to Portugal in the colonial years.  At the same time, the native residents of the area that became Brazil had two major contacts with the Portuguese settlers.  Many of the indigenous peoples mixed with the European settlers, while others were simply exterminated, either deliberately or through the ravages of disease.  Those native inhabitants brought elements of their culture into the mix, particularly in the area of language and food.  The Portuguese language spoken in Brazil has hundreds of Indian origin words.

The third major component of Brazil culture is that of the black Africans who were imported as slaves during the colonial years.  At the same time as the Portuguese forced their civilization upon their West African slaves, the African influence made itself felt amongst the Brazilian residents of all origins and races.  The Bahia region of Brazil is particularly obvious for its legacy of language, food and music from African origins. Less obvious influences upon the culture of Brazil came from the Italian and German immigrants that settled mainly in southern and southeastern Brazil. 
No discussion of Brazil culture would be complete without mentioning the Carnaval--a multiday celebration held to mark the onset of the Lent season.  The Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro, is world famous for the tourist attraction of elaborate parades sponsored by the samba schools of the city. Local and regional music styles and traditions such as the axé and frevo are featured through the land.
Musical tradition in the variety of styles found in the culture of Brazil include samba, forró, bossa nova in addition to others.  In the area of classical music, Brazil boasts several world renowned composers such as  José Maurício Nunes Garcia,  Heitor Villa-Lobos and  Osvaldo Lacerda.  In addition, well known Brazilian classical performers in the mode of soprano, piano, and symphonic orchestras.
Notable literature contributions date back to the 16th century, and more recently cinema is accepted as part of the contribution of Brazil culture to the world.

More examples of the <a href="http://www.brazilsf.org/brazil_culture_eng.htm">culture of Brazil</a> today can be found on the internet by following these links.  <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-TnX2RWO9U">music</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_QPcjN_NrQ">dance</a>, <a href=" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l3T66eNJ6sg">painting</a> and more <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEPDBFY8uXg">dance</a>.

From Brazil Culture back to Travel Brazil Guide

World Factbook Brazil
The World Factbook - Brazil contains a wealth of information about the country.  Information contained in the World Factbook - Brazil is prepared by the CIA.

Model Brazil
To model Brazil young women must aspire to be the most beautiful. A representative model Brazil is undoubtedly best in the world.

Brazil religion
Brazil religion is first and foremost Roman Catholicism that goes back to the 15th century. Over 75% of all Brazil religion acknowledgment is Catholic.

Brazil Education
Brazil education has high quality university education and high illiteracy rate amongst younger children. Only 40% of high school agers use Brazil education.

Brazil National Anthem
The Brazil national anthem is a sincere and melodious piece that can be played or sung. The literal translation to English of the Brazil national anthem  exists.

Brazil Capital
Brazil has had only three capital cities--Salvador da Bahia, Rio de Janeiro and Brazilia.  The current Brazil capital city , Brazilia was dedicated in 1960.

States of Brazil
The states of Brazil number twenty-six established usually from historical boundaries.  One federal district supplements the states of Brazil. 

CIA World Fact Book
The CIA World Fact Book - Brazil provides current information and statistics.  Research by CIS World Fact Book - Brazil staff is good for educators and students

Brazil Direct Foreign Investment
Brazil direct foreign investment is a lucrative area for investment. Capital and technology intensive sectors have most Brazil direct foreign investment.

President of Brazil
The president of Brazil is the head of state and head of government.  Luiz da Silva is the sitting president of Brazil.

Brazil Stock Exchange
The Sao Paulo Brazil Stock Exchange trades over 100 million shares on an average day, making this Brazil stock exchange the largest in Latin America. 

Banco do Brazil
Banco do Brazil is the oldest surviving bank in the country.  The Banco do Brazil is controlled by the government of Brazil.

Mountains In Brazil
Whether you are into climbing, trekking, hiking, or just taking in the view, the mountains in Brazil have something to offer. If you can pull yourself away from the beaches and the city long enough, give the mountains in Brazil a tour!