A Statesman of the Republic - Afonso Arinos de Melo Franco

A Statesman of the Republic: Afonso Arinos de Melo Franco

Afonso Arinos de Melo Franco was a Brazilian statesman, lawyer, and professor who served as a member of the Chamber of Deputies, the Senate, and the Constituent Assembly. He was also the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Arinos was a leading figure in the Brazilian Democratic Movement (MDB) and played a key role in the country's transition to democracy.

Early Life and Education

Afonso Arinos de Melo Franco was born in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil, on October 5, 1905. He was the son of Afonso Arinos de Melo Franco, a lawyer and politician, and Francisca de Melo Franco. Arinos attended the University of Minas Gerais, where he studied law. He graduated in 1927 and began practicing law in Belo Horizonte.

Political Career

Arinos began his political career in the 1930s. He was elected to the Chamber of Deputies in 1934 and served until 1937. He was then appointed Minister of Justice by President Getúlio Vargas. Arinos served in this position until 1945.

After the fall of Vargas, Arinos was elected to the Senate in 1946. He served in the Senate until 1954. During his time in the Senate, Arinos was a leading figure in the Brazilian Democratic Movement (MDB). The MDB was a coalition of opposition parties that opposed the military dictatorship that ruled Brazil from 1964 to 1985.

In 1964, Arinos was arrested by the military dictatorship and held in prison for several months. He was released in 1965 and went into exile in Europe. Arinos returned to Brazil in 1979 and continued to be active in politics. He was elected to the Constituent Assembly in 1985 and played a key role in drafting the new Brazilian constitution.

Later Life and Death

Arinos continued to be active in public life until his death. He died in Rio de Janeiro on February 15, 1990. Arinos was a respected statesman and a leading figure in Brazilian politics. He was a strong advocate for democracy and human rights.

Legacy

Afonso Arinos de Melo Franco is considered one of the most important figures in Brazilian history. He was a statesman, a lawyer, and a professor who dedicated his life to public service. Arinos was a leading figure in the Brazilian Democratic Movement (MDB) and played a key role in the country's transition to democracy. He was also a respected scholar and author. Arinos's work has had a profound impact on Brazilian politics and society.

Why You Should Read This Book

"A Statesman of the Republic: Afonso Arinos de Melo Franco" is a fascinating and inspiring biography of one of Brazil's most important figures. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Brazilian history, politics, or law. Arinos's story is a reminder of the importance of democracy and human rights. It is also a story of hope and inspiration. Arinos's life shows that one person can make a difference in the world.

Where to Buy

"A Statesman of the Republic: Afonso Arinos de Melo Franco" is available for purchase online and in bookstores.