Episode 107 - Brazil Mentioned (Ft. Historia Publica)
Dec 1, 2023
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Learn about the history of Brazil with Ian Neves of Historia Publica. Topics include: the battle for the best grilled meat in Latin America, the environmental impact of Brazil's meat industry, the rise of the neo-Nazi movement in Brazil, the history of communism and the Communist Party in Brazil, the popularity of a political figure in Argentina, comparing the fame and political ideologies of Mille and Bosonado, changing news consumption, and Brazil's dictatorship history.
The history of Brazil was marked by a military coup and subsequent dictatorship that lasted until 1985, severely weakening the communist movement.
The communist movement in Brazil is experiencing a resurgence, focusing on grassroots activism, engagement with working-class people, and using online platforms to spread ideas.
The workers' party (PT) in Brazil emerged as a mass movement rooted in the working class, but its shift towards a more moderate approach contributed to disillusionment among some sectors and potential repetition of past failures.
Deep dives
Historical Background: The Military Regime and Split in the Left
During the 1960s, Brazil experienced a military coup, which led to a dictatorship that lasted until 1985. The left-wing movement in Brazil was fractured during this time due to a split between those aligned with the USSR and those aligned with China. The split led to the formation of two communist parties: the Brazilian Communist Party and the Communist Party of Brazil. The military regime actively suppressed the left, dismantling unions, persecuting leaders, and illegalizing political parties. The period of dictatorship severely weakened the communist movement in Brazil, which struggled to recover in the 1990s amidst the rise of neoliberalism. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of the communist movement, particularly with the founding of new Marxist parties and grassroots organizations such as the Popular Unity (UP) inspired by the Black Panther Party.
Current Resurgence of the Communist Movement
The communist movement in Brazil is experiencing a resurgence, with a focus on grassroots activism and engagement with working-class people. One notable party is the Popular Unity (UP), founded in 2009, which draws inspiration from the Chilean UP and works closely with various social movements. This new wave of the communist movement aims to reach beyond the confines of academia and university debates and reconnect with the wider population. The movement has also gained momentum online, with internet-based activists and content creators playing a crucial role in spreading communist ideas and engaging with a broader audience.
Challenges and Hopes for the Future
Despite the resurgence of the communist movement in Brazil, there are significant challenges to overcome. The legacy of the military regime still looms large, with the military retaining significant political power and influence. Calls for transitional justice, including the establishment of a National Commission of Truth, have been made to address the crimes of the dictatorship and hold responsible individuals accountable. However, there is resistance to such measures, creating a tense political environment. Nevertheless, the renewed strength of the communist movement and its grassroots activism offer hope for a more inclusive, equitable, and socially just future for Brazil.
Impact of Military Regime on Workers' Party
During the military regime in Brazil, the workers' party (PT) emerged as a mass movement rooted in the working class. The regime's policies of lowering wages and suppressing labor movements led to a major strike in Sao Paulo, with Lula, a prominent union leader, playing a significant role. The amnesty law allowed unions and parties to resurface, leading to the formation of a left-leaning coalition that would become the PT. While the PT grew in influence and became the country's largest party, it lacked a clear ideology, as noted by prominent communists. The PT's shift towards a more moderate approach, working with the financial market and the bourgeoisie, ultimately contributed to Lula's election in 2002.
Challenges and Consequences of Lula's Government
Lula's presidency brought about some positive changes, including significant poverty relief measures. However, its coalition government, aiming to please diverse interests, led to the banks and landowners profiting, creating a sense of disillusionment among some sectors. Lula's ability to enact concessions to the working class was facilitated by positive economic growth in Brazil during that period. However, the subsequent economic recession resulted in Dilma's impeachment and the rise of a new liberal government focused on reducing workers' rights and intentionally increasing unemployment. Looking ahead, the repetition of strategies in the third Lula government, including forming alliances with right-wing parties, may lead to repeating the same pattern where the working class fails to see long-lasting systemic change.
Come learn about the history of Brazil with none other than Ian Neves of Historia Publica! Lots of coups to see, folks.
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