Disguised in Dance: The Secret History of Capoeira

1. Africa to Brazil

Sometimes referred to as a martial art, sometimes a dance, and sometimes even a game, capoeira is a unique phenomenon which has caught the world's attention.

Yet despite its rising popularity, the exact origins of the art have been lost due to a scarcity of historical evidence and the secretive nature of its beginnings. But oral tradition and evidence leaves little doubt about its African roots.

It has been suggested that capoeira was first created during the 16th century by slaves who were taken from West Africa to Brazil by the Portuguese colonists.

Prohibited from celebrating their cultural customs and strictly forbidden from practicing any martial arts, capoeira is thought to have emerged as a way to bypass these two imposing laws.

Hidden in the musical and rhythmical elements of the form, violent kicks were disguised as passionate dance movements, and its combination of a mixture of West African cultures saved it from being identified as an attempt to preserve any specific tradition. As such, capoeira came to life as a survival tool, not only of self-defense, but also of cultural identity.

Understand the roots of capoeira will help you to make easier to understand the ritual when you play capoeira

2. Slavery

Capoeira's history begins with the beginning of African slavery in Brazil. Since the 17th century, Portuguese colonists began exporting slaves to their colonies, coming mainly from West Africa. Brazil, with its vast territory, received most of the slaves, almost 40% of all slaves sent through the Atlantic Ocean.

In the 16th century, Portugal had claimed one of the largest territories of the colonial empires, but lacked people to colonize it, especially workers. In the Brazilian colony, the Portuguese, like many European colonists, chose to use slavery to supply this shortage of workers. In its first century, the main economic activity in the colony was the production and processing of sugarcane. Portuguese colonists created large sugarcane farms called engenhos, which depended on the labor of slaves.

Slaves, living in inhumane and humiliating conditions, were forced to work hard and often suffered physical punishment for small misbehaviors. Although slaves often outnumbered colonists, rebellions were rare due to lack of weapons, harsh colonial law, disagreement between slaves coming from different

African cultures and lack of knowledge about the new land and its surroundings usually discouraged the idea of a rebellion. In this environment, Capoeira was born as a simple hope of survival. It was a tool with which an escaped

3. Quilombos

Using capoeira, many slaves escaped their masters and formed rebellion groups known as Quilombos, creating communities outside of Portuguese control. These communities stood as strongholds against the Portuguese, and many are famous for the courageous defenses they put up. Palmares is the most famous of these, and is thought to have been home to over 10,000 people. Although there are few historical documents, it is believed that capoeira was a vital part of their defense and cultural practice.

Within the societies under Portuguese rule, capoeira was just as difficult to control. With the growing cities that were forming during the late 17th and early 18th centuries, Brazil experienced an unprecedented urbanization. Larger populations resulted in larger communities of slaves in smaller areas.

People were attracted to capoeira not only for its sport and play but also for its powerful means of attack and defense for their survival. Capoeira became a widespread practice at the beginning of the 20th century, outlaws, bodyguards and mercenaries used it. Even some politicians practiced as a way to sway constituents. In this time, strong social pressure throughout the country slowly transformed capoeira into a less aggressive weekend pastime.

4. Malandragem

Malandragem is a Portuguese term encapsulating a lifestyle of leisure, fast living, and minor illicit activities, often portrayed in samba music, particularly songs by artists like Noel Rosa and Bezerra da Silva.

Central to this concept is the "malandro" (a term used for a person embodying this lifestyle), who is akin to a "bad boy" or anti-hero. The malandro has emerged as a notable figure in Brazilian culture, finding a place in literature, cinema, and music. Malandragem involves employing various tactics to gain an upper hand in different situations, requiring qualities such as cleverness, charm, and resourcefulness to manipulate people and situations for maximum gain with minimal effort.

The success of malandragem hinges on achieving these advantages discreetly, remaining hidden from exposure. In the Brazilian cultural context, malandragem is viewed as a means of personal justice. Confronted by oppressive systems, the individualistic malandro survives by outwitting authorities, outsmarting others, and circumventing rules, all to ensure their own well-being.

It's important to note that malandragem is typically not used to exploit others maliciously, but rather to navigate out of unfair circumstances, even if this entails bending or breaking the law.

Malandragem in capoeira

Malandragem is one of the key elements in this art form. Why? Because capoeira and malandragem originate from the same roots. They were both ways of survival. The very individuals who needed to master the art of capoeira for self-defense grew up in an environment where they had to engage in the tactics of malandragem to survive.

Malandragem is the art of anticipating risks and harnessing them for one's benefit. It involves swiftly comprehending an opponent's aggressive intentions and, during a confrontation or a game, outwitting, deceiving, and confusing them. An example of malandragem in the context of the game is feigning an attack, stopping just before striking, and capitalizing on the subsequent vulnerable position your opponent exposes. This skill revolves around foreseeing your partner's upcoming actions and leveraging them to your advantage.

To excel in capoeira, you must learn to foresee your partner's intentions and their next moves, master concealing your own intentions, adapting on the spot, negotiating, outsmarting, and employing psychological tactics against your opponent. It's about destabilizing your opponent's gameplay, deliberately creating openings for them to exploit, and using those opportunities to your own benefit.

Similarly, malandragem is the art of making the most out of very little, challenging the status quo, and earning the respect of others through unconventional means.

5. The Legalization of Capoeira in Brazil: From Illegality to Cultural Heritage

For many years, Capoeira, the vibrant and dynamic Afro-Brazilian martial art, was deemed illegal in Brazil. Its journey from illegality to cultural recognition is a testament to the resilience and cultural significance of this art form.

Illegality of Capoeira:

During the late 19th century and early 20th century, Brazil went through significant political and social changes. Capoeira, with its roots in the Afro-Brazilian community, was often associated with rebellion, crime, and social unrest. The authorities viewed it as a threat and, in 1892, Capoeira was officially banned throughout Brazil. Anyone caught practicing it faced imprisonment or other severe punishments.

Mestre Bimba and Capoeira Regional:

The turning point came with the efforts of Mestre Bimba, Manoel dos Reis Machado. In the early 20th century, he recognized the need to legitimize Capoeira. He developed a more structured and disciplined form of Capoeira, known as Capoeira Regional, which integrated elements of Brazilian martial arts and gained acceptance as a legitimate fighting style.

The Legalization Process:

In 1932, Mestre Bimba opened the first official Capoeira school in Salvador, Bahia. However, Capoeira still faced resistance, and its legality remained unchanged. The breakthrough came in 1937 when Mestre Bimba was invited to perform his Capoeira Regional for then-Brazilian President Getúlio Vargas. Impressed by the art form's cultural value and its potential to unify Brazilians, President Vargas declared Capoeira legal, recognizing it as an essential part of Brazil's cultural heritage.

Recognition as Cultural Heritage:

Over time, Capoeira gained recognition not only in Brazil but worldwide. In 2008, UNESCO officially recognized Capoeira as an "intangible cultural heritage of humanity," highlighting its importance as a cultural expression and a means of preserving Afro-Brazilian traditions.

Today, Capoeira is celebrated and practiced globally, cherished for its blend of martial arts, dance, music, and cultural significance. Its journey from illegality to cultural heritage status is a remarkable testament to the resilience and cultural richness of this unique Brazilian art form.

6. Capoeira Today in Brazil: A Catalyst for Positive Change

In contemporary Brazil, Capoeira has transcended its origins as a martial art and has evolved into a powerful social and cultural force. It plays a pivotal role in transforming the lives of individuals across diverse communities, both in marginalized neighborhoods and among those with greater access to resources.

Empowering Marginalized Communities:

Capoeira has proven to be a lifeline for individuals living in impoverished communities in Brazil. It offers an alternative to the harsh realities of poverty, crime, and limited opportunities. By engaging in Capoeira, children and young adults gain access to a structured and supportive environment. They learn discipline, self-respect, and teamwork, helping them break free from the cycle of violence and poverty. Capoeira schools in these communities provide a sense of belonging and purpose, offering a path to a better future.

Social Inclusion and Empowerment:

Capoeira's inclusive nature fosters a sense of belonging, transcending barriers of socioeconomic status, ethnicity, and gender. It empowers women, who have historically been underrepresented in martial arts, to participate actively and break gender stereotypes. Capoeira also serves as a bridge for racial and cultural understanding, promoting tolerance and unity among diverse groups in Brazil.

Education and Life Skills:

Many Capoeira schools in Brazil offer educational programs alongside martial arts training. They provide academic support, teach life skills, and emphasize the importance of education. This dual approach equips students not only with Capoeira skills but also with the tools they need to succeed academically and professionally.

Cultural Preservation:

Capoeira's roots in African and Afro-Brazilian traditions are an essential part of Brazil's cultural heritage. By preserving and celebrating these traditions, Capoeira serves as a vehicle for cultural identity and pride, especially among Afro-Brazilian communities. It helps preserve and pass down cultural knowledge to future generations.

Transforming Lives:

The transformative power of Capoeira is evident in countless stories of individuals who have overcome adversity through their involvement with the art form. It instills confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of self-worth. For many, Capoeira is not just a physical practice; it's a philosophy that encourages personal growth, self-expression, and community engagement.

In summary, Capoeira is a vibrant force in contemporary Brazil, offering hope and opportunity to those in marginalized communities and fostering unity and understanding among diverse groups. It is a symbol of cultural resilience, a tool for social inclusion, and a catalyst for positive change, illustrating the enduring power of this Afro-Brazilian art form to transform lives and communities for the better.

7. Capoeira Around the World: Building Community and Transforming Lives

Capoeira, once confined to the streets of Brazil, has expanded its reach across the globe. Today, it's not just a martial art; it's a worldwide cultural phenomenon that brings people together, fosters personal growth, and promotes cross-cultural understanding.

A Global Cultural Ambassador:

Capoeira's journey beyond Brazil began in the mid-20th century when Brazilian practitioners introduced it to other countries. Since then, it has spread to virtually every corner of the world, captivating people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. This global expansion has made Capoeira a powerful cultural ambassador for Brazil, showcasing its rich heritage.

Community Building:

Capoeira transcends linguistic and cultural barriers. It's a communal experience where individuals from diverse backgrounds gather to play, sing, and celebrate. Capoeira groups worldwide have become tight-knit communities, offering friendship and support to their members. These communities often organize events, workshops, and performances that enrich local cultural scenes and promote inclusivity.

Physical and Mental Well-being:

The physicality of Capoeira promotes fitness and agility. It's a full-body workout that improves strength, flexibility, and coordination. Beyond the physical benefits, Capoeira fosters mental resilience and discipline. Practitioners learn to adapt to different rhythms, anticipate their opponents' movements, and remain calm under pressure.

Education and Youth Development:

Many Capoeira groups worldwide have integrated educational components into their programs. They offer academic support, mentorship, and life skills training to young participants. Through Capoeira, these organizations empower youth to strive for personal excellence and become responsible, confident individuals.

Cultural Exchange and Tolerance:

Capoeira promotes cultural exchange and tolerance. It brings together people from diverse backgrounds, encouraging them to learn about Brazilian culture and history. Practitioners often gain a deeper appreciation for the Afro-Brazilian roots of Capoeira, fostering respect and understanding for different cultures.

Social Impact and Empowerment:

Capoeira has proven to be a tool for social impact. In some regions, it's used to uplift disadvantaged communities, offering an alternative to violence and crime. It empowers individuals with self-esteem and a sense of purpose, helping them overcome adversity.

Building Bridges:

Capoeira events, such as batizados (belt ceremonies) and international festivals, create connections between practitioners worldwide. These gatherings promote cultural exchange and strengthen bonds among the global Capoeira community.

In conclusion, Capoeira has transcended borders and transformed into a global movement. It's not just a martial art; it's a powerful force that builds communities, promotes well-being, fosters cultural understanding, and empowers individuals from diverse backgrounds. Capoeira's global reach showcases the enduring power of cultural traditions to bring people together and make a positive impact on the world.

Conclusion: Capoeira: From Liberation to Personal Transformation

Capoeira, the Afro-Brazilian martial art, has a profound history rooted in liberation and survival. Its journey from its origins as a tool of resistance against slavery to its modern role in personal transformation and cultural preservation demonstrates its enduring power.

Liberation from Slavery:

Capoeira's roots date back to the 16th and 17th centuries when African slaves were forcibly brought to Brazil. In the face of oppression and brutal conditions, they developed Capoeira as a form of self-defense and resistance. It was a means of liberating their bodies, spirits, and cultural identity from the shackles of slavery. Capoeira allowed enslaved individuals to assert their humanity and maintain a sense of dignity amid dehumanizing circumstances.

Survival and Resilience:

Through Capoeira, enslaved Africans found a way to survive, physically and emotionally. It instilled resilience, providing a form of resistance against the relentless suffering they endured. The art's fluid, deceptive movements and its ability to convey messages through music and rhythm were essential in outsmarting their captors.

Transition to Modern Times:

Today, Capoeira continues to empower individuals, but the struggle has shifted. Instead of physical chains, many face internal challenges, seeking freedom from self-doubt, limitations, and adversity. Capoeira offers a path to personal transformation. It nurtures discipline, confidence, and adaptability, helping people overcome mental and emotional barriers.

Respect and Remembrance:

Respect for Capoeira's history and the legacy of those who developed it is paramount. It serves as a reminder of the suffering endured by enslaved Africans. As practitioners, it is crucial to honor their memory and acknowledge the art's roots in resistance and survival. This respect is expressed through the preservation of Capoeira's cultural and historical traditions, ensuring that its origins are never forgotten.

Maintaining the Legacy:

Capoeira's legacy lives on through the respect and admiration it garners. It's a testament to the enduring power of culture, art, and human resilience. Today, practitioners worldwide are custodians of this legacy, tasked with preserving and sharing it respectfully with the world. By doing so, they honor the memory of those who first used Capoeira to defy oppression and uphold their cultural heritage.

In essence, Capoeira's evolution from liberation against slavery to personal transformation represents a continuum of resilience, empowerment, and cultural preservation. It's a profound reminder of the enduring strength of the human spirit and the capacity for art and tradition to inspire personal growth and social change.