Modern Brazil: A Very Short Introduction

Very Short Introductions #654

by Anthony W. Pereira

Brazil is associated in many people's minds with conviviality, sensuality, and natural beauty. Yet the country behind these images and associations is something of an enigma. It is alternately praised as the "country of the future," a rising power ready to take its place at the top tables of global governance, or written off as a perennial disappointment, a country forever failing to reach its potential, mired in corruption, inequality, poverty, and violence. These oscillations between euphoria and despair obscure a country with its own unique trajectory through the 20th and 21st centuries.

This Very Short Introduction offers an account of modern Brazil that covers some of the major features of the country's transformation, including the rise of the modern state in the mid-20th century, the violent repression of dictatorship, the domestic economic, political, and social challenges faced by the country today, and the role Brazil plays in dealing with some of the most important contemporary global problems. In doing so, Anthony Pereira highlights some of the peculiar features of Brazil's development, such as the tendency of its political leaders to engage in complicated, informal political deals; the state's welfare institutions that often exacerbate, rather than improve, the country's deep economic inequalities; and Brazil's long history of peaceful relations with its neighbours despite a high level of state violence against citizens.


ABOUT THE
The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

Genres: Brazil, History, Nonfiction

176 pages, Paperback

Published December 1, 2020

Reviews

[Leeanne G · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Everyone should want Brazil to succeed as a nation...because Brazil occupies a pivotal position in the world, halfway between the affluent and poor nations, and has an ability to dialogue with both the Global North and the Global South, both the 'West' and the rest. The problems Brazil faces–inequality, poverty, violence, environmental degradation, political polarization, pandemics, and a gap between the populace and its representatives–are the world's problems. Brazil: we've all been there. Brazil is the world and the world is Brazil.”

[Joshua Gibson-Altrock]

Great insights into a country I love.

[Liam Boulanger · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book quite a bit. Very much in the spirit of a social science research paper. Yet, thanks to its length, it was not dry or drawn out. A fine read that serves its purpose; informing the reader of Brazil, its history, culture, economics and politics.

[Павел Качнов · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found the first two-thirds of Modern Brazil: A Very Short Introduction to be an excellent primer for anyone looking to dive into South American history, starting with Brazil. It does a great job of outlining the country's roots, struggles, and cultural aspects, and presents plenty of interesting facts that make it easy to follow and engaging. However, the last part of the book felt a bit stale to me. That said, it still managed to shed light on Brazil's current challenges and provided a decent snapshot of the country's present atmosphere and societal trends. Overall, it's a solid introduction if you're looking to get a broad understanding of Brazil.

[Phil Gwyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

So good for bamboozling Stephen with unexpected facts

[Michael Doran · Rating 4 out of 5]

As comprehensive a summary of the history, culture and politics of a huge country as can be expected in 100 pages or so. Up to date all the way up to brief mentions of the Bolsanaro administration and COVID pandemic and written in a very easy to read style. A great starting point before moving on to more detailed books on the topic (many of which seem to have not been updated since 2014 or so)

[Rob Marney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short and sweet, this assumes no knowledge of the subject. A few too many sweeping generalities and not enough culture, but overall a great read.

[Jules · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informative and easy to read

[Theis Schæfer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic and very concise introduction to the very complex country of Brazil. Very much recommended if you are going to visit Brazil.