Contestado War: Causes and Consequences

The Guerra do Contestado was a conflict between Brazilian settlers and authorities from 1912 to 1916, involving around 20,000 peasants. It was sparked by land loss due to a railway project and rising unemployment. José Maria, a messianic leader, led a movement advocating for a new society. Despite initial resistance, the government eventually crushed the rebellion, resulting in 20,000 deaths. The conflict was largely ignored in historical narratives, as local elites sought to maintain a European image for the region.

What was the main cause of the Contestado War?

• Disputes over mining rights

• Religious differences

• Conflicts between local farmers and the government

• Struggles for political power

Which company was contracted to build the railway that led to the conflict?

• A North American company

• A German company

• A British company

• A Brazilian company

What was the width of the land strip given to the railway company?

• 10 km

• 20 km

• 30 km

• 40 km

Who emerged as a significant religious leader during the Contestado War?

• Beato José Maria

• Padre Cícero

• Tiradentes

• Dom Pedro II

What type of society did José Maria and his followers establish?

• A society without commerce and private property

• A monarchy

• A feudal society

• A capitalist society

How did the government initially respond to the movement led by José Maria?

• By providing economic aid

• By sending police and soldiers to suppress it

• By ignoring it

• By negotiating with the leaders

What happened to José Maria during the conflict?

• He died in battle and became a myth

• He fled the country

• He surrendered to the government

• He was captured and imprisoned

Who led the final government operation to crush the rebels?

• President Getúlio Vargas

• Marshal Deodoro da Fonseca

• Captain Matos Costa

• General Setembrino de Carvalho

Approximately how many people died as a result of the Contestado War?

• 5,000

• 10,000

• 15,000

• 20,000

Why did the state of Santa Catarina avoid publicizing the Contestado War?

• To protect local businesses

• To maintain an image of a European-style state

• To avoid international intervention

• To prevent further conflicts