History of Brazil: From Colonization to Independence

Brazil, with a rich history dating back over 30,000 years, was colonized by Portugal, unlike its Spanish-colonized neighbors. The Portuguese arrived in 1500, leading to colonization and exploitation of resources like pau-brasil. This resulted in the enslavement of indigenous people and later African slaves. Despite European rivalries, Brazil thrived economically. The Portuguese royal family's exile to Brazil in the 19th century spurred development, leading to independence in 1822. Brazil transitioned from an empire to a republic, facing political and economic challenges. Today, it stands as a unique nation in South America.

Which European country colonized Brazil, setting it apart from most of its South American neighbors?

• Portugal

• France

• England

• Spain

Who is generally credited with leading the first Portuguese expedition to Brazil in 1500?

• Duarte Pacheco Pereira

• Dom Joao VI

• Pedro Alvares Cabral

• King Manuel of Portugal

What was the initial Portuguese goal upon realizing Brazil was on their side of the Tordesillas line?

• To find a route to India

• To convert indigenous people to Christianity

• To monopolize trade, especially of pau-brasil

• To establish a military base

Which European countries attempted to challenge Portuguese control in Brazil during the 16th century?

• Russia and Sweden

• Spain and Italy

• Germany and England

• France and the Netherlands

What prompted the Portuguese to turn to Africa for slaves to work in Brazil?

• A desire to expand their empire

• A decline in the local indigenous population

• A treaty with African nations

• A need for skilled labor

Approximately what percentage of African slaves involved in the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade ended up in Brazil?

• 60%

• 40%

• 25%

• 10%

What significant event in Europe led the Portuguese royal family to flee to Brazil?

• The Spanish Inquisition

• The Industrial Revolution

• The Napoleonic Wars

• The French Revolution

What declaration did Pedro I make that marked Brazil's independence from Portugal?

• Liberty or Death

• Freedom for All

• Sovereignty Now

• Independence or Death

In what year did Brazil transition from an empire to a republic?

• 1945

• 1889

• 1930

• 1822

Who seized power in Brazil with a military coup in 1930?

• Pedro II

• Dom Joao VI

• Pedro I

• Getulio Vargas