1964: The Coup That Branded a Generation

1964: The Coup That Branded a Generation

In 1964, a military coup d'état overthrew the democratically elected government of João Goulart in Brazil. The coup ushered in a 21-year dictatorship that would leave a lasting mark on the country.

In his book, "1964: The Coup That Branded a Generation," historian John W.F. Dulles provides a comprehensive account of the coup and its aftermath. Dulles draws on a wealth of primary sources, including interviews with key participants in the coup, to provide a nuanced and balanced account of this pivotal event in Brazilian history.

The Road to the Coup

Dulles begins by examining the political and economic conditions that led to the coup. He argues that the coup was not simply the result of a military conspiracy, but rather the culmination of a broader crisis in Brazilian society.

Brazil was experiencing rapid economic growth in the early 1960s, but this growth was accompanied by rising inequality and social unrest. The Goulart government was seen as too radical by many in the military and the business community, and they feared that it would lead Brazil down the path of communism.

The Coup

On March 31, 1964, a group of military officers launched a coup d'état against the Goulart government. The coup was swift and largely bloodless, and Goulart was forced to flee the country.

The military junta that took power immediately began to dismantle the democratic institutions that had been in place since 1945. They suspended the constitution, dissolved Congress, and imposed censorship on the press.

The Repression

The military dictatorship that followed the coup was one of the most repressive in Latin American history. Thousands of people were arrested, tortured, and killed. Many more were forced into exile.

The dictatorship also had a devastating impact on Brazilian society. The economy stagnated, and poverty and inequality increased. The country was also plagued by political violence and social unrest.

The Legacy of the Coup

The coup of 1964 had a profound impact on Brazil. It not only ended the country's experiment with democracy, but it also left a lasting legacy of fear and repression.

The dictatorship's legacy is still being felt today. Brazil is still struggling to come to terms with its past, and the wounds of the coup have yet to fully heal.

Why You Should Read This Book

"1964: The Coup That Branded a Generation" is a must-read for anyone interested in Brazilian history. Dulles provides a comprehensive and balanced account of the coup and its aftermath, and he does so in a highly readable and engaging style.

This book is essential for understanding one of the most important events in Brazilian history. It is also a reminder of the dangers of authoritarianism and the importance of fighting for democracy.

Conclusion

"1964: The Coup That Branded a Generation" is a powerful and important book that tells the story of a pivotal event in Brazilian history. Dulles's comprehensive and balanced account of the coup and its aftermath is essential reading for anyone interested in Brazil or Latin American history.