The concept of the Brazilian emerged at the time of Brazil’s independence and Jornal Hoje demonstrated that one of the symbols of this Brazilianness is the caboclo a halfindigenous, halfblack entity that is still a significant presence in the independence parades in Bahia to this day. (See video above)
The caboclo always bears the Brazilian flag and shows the attitude of a winner who has conquered the dragon, symbol of the Portuguese crown.
Several cities in Bahia have a similar image and he is the star of the parades celebrating the separation from Portugal. A war hero, of battles that many Brazilians have never heard of but were fundamental to the independence process.
The clashes took place in at least seven provinces, as the states were then called. Also in parts of Uruguay that belonged to Brazilian territory at the time.
“During the independence process itself, some of its participants, some of its outstanding participants, were actively engaged, they were very successful in creating a version of what they were doing. Which version was that? Brazil’s independence would be a peaceful political process. No bloodshed, no disorder, no civil war. (…) This version took shape during the 19th century and became a true myth of origin,” explains Professor João Pimenta.
The Portuguese Army concentrated troops in Salvador. The war in Bahia lasted more than a year until victory on July 2, 1823.
In the Terreiros, the caboclo acquired another meaning, which is also part of this symbol of independence.
“It also takes on religious contours. Also on July 2nd, many terreiros in Salvador have religious obligations towards the landowner,” says Professor Carlos da Silva Júnior.
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