1. Hidden Histories of Latin America
Menino 23 and Brazil
Dr. Nicolette Kostiw

2. Brazil Largest country in Latin America Brazilian Portuguese
Highly diverse culture
Tradition of decentralized system
Powerful landed elites
Afro-Brazilian culture
More than any other country in Latin America
Slavery abolished in 1888
Post-emancipation era
Race relations

3. Slavery in Brazil Approx. 12 million slaves taken from Africa
Approx. 10 million survived trip to New World
90% of all slaves ended up in Latin America
Approx. 40% of that total went to Brazil

4. Brazilian Regionalism
26 states
Highly diverse geography
Largest population density in Southeast
Concentration of wealth in Southeast
Inverse of U.S.
Regional stigmas and stereotypes
Race
Poverty
Culture/Education

5. Scientific Racism and Eugenics
Positive
Negative
“whitening” policies
Education
Sanitation
Health
Nutrition

6. WWII and Fascism Rise in Europe
Getúlio Vargas and the Estado Novo ( )
Brazilian Integralism
Outbreak of WWII
Brazil alliance with Axis Powers or Allied Powers?

7. Significance of Menino 23
Reflection of the post-abolition period abuses of people of color in Brazil
Shows how appearance of modern nation but still grappling with colonial issues
Demonstrates how firmly scientific racism, eugenics, and fascism took root in Brazil
Shows the firm grip of landed elite in rural areas—absolute power
Shows special vulnerability of children of color in Brazil

8. For the classroom
Discussions of the legacy of slavery in Latin America
Discussions of race and racism in Latin America
Discussions of WWII and Fascism
Discussions of children as historical actors
Discussions of authoritarian regimes and political violence in Latin America
Suggestions?