The History Of Capoeira
Capoeira originated in the 16th century from the influence of African culture in Colonial Brazil. Portuguese colonists trafficked Africans to Brazil for forced labor and slave labor. Capoeira was created as a way for African slaves to maintain their culture and self identity in addition to forming a method of self defense and rebellion. The aspects of martial art were camouflaged by traditional music, singing and dancing.
Capoeira and its practitioners were preserved through centuries of marginalization and discrimination and today the art has evolved from a cultural practice, to martial art, to a way of life. This once outlawed, covert art of physical and spiritual empowerment, has transformed itself into a staple of Brazilian popular culture and today is recognized as a national sport.
