Brazil
Historical Events
1500 - Portuguese Arrival
Pedro Álvares Cabral claims Brazil for Portugal, marking the beginning of European colonization.
1815 - Elevation to United Kingdom
Brazil is elevated to the rank of a united kingdom with Portugal after the Portuguese court relocates to Rio de Janeiro.
1822 - Independence Declared
Prince Pedro of Braganza declares Brazil's independence from Portugal, establishing the Empire of Brazil.
1824 - First Constitution
Brazil's first constitution is enacted, creating a bicameral legislature and establishing civil rights.
1888 - Abolition of Slavery
Brazil becomes the last country in the Americas to abolish slavery, marking a significant social change.
1889 - Establishment of Republic
Brazil transitions from an empire to a presidential republic following a military coup d'état.
1930 - Getúlio Vargas Comes to Power
An armed revolution ends the First Republic, bringing Getúlio Vargas to power.
1937 - Estado Novo Regime
Vargas assumes dictatorial powers, initiating the Estado Novo and leading Brazil into World War II.
1945 - Return to Democracy
Democracy is restored in Brazil after Vargas is ousted from power.
1964 - Military Dictatorship Established
An authoritarian military dictatorship takes power, supported by the United States, lasting until 1985.
1988 - Current Constitution Enacted
Brazil enacts its current constitution, defining the country as a democratic federal republic.