How to Kill the Blue Morpho Butterfly - A Chronicle of the Dilma Era - Monica Baumgarten de Bolle

How to Kill the Blue Morpho Butterfly: A Chronicle of the Dilma Era by Monica Baumgarten de Bolle

In her book "How to Kill the Blue Morpho Butterfly: A Chronicle of the Dilma Era," Monica Baumgarten de Bolle takes readers on a journey through the tumultuous years of Dilma Rousseff's presidency in Brazil. Through a combination of personal anecdotes, political analysis, and historical context, Bolle paints a vivid picture of a country in crisis, struggling to come to terms with its past and forge a path towards a more just and equitable future.

A Nation Divided

Bolle begins her narrative by describing the deep divisions that have long plagued Brazilian society. She traces the country's history of colonialism, slavery, and military dictatorship, arguing that these factors have created a society marked by inequality, corruption, and a lack of trust in government. These divisions were exacerbated during Rousseff's presidency, as she faced fierce opposition from both the left and the right, as well as from within her own party.

The Rise and Fall of Dilma Rousseff

Bolle provides a detailed account of Rousseff's rise to power, from her early days as a guerrilla fighter to her election as Brazil's first female president. She highlights Rousseff's strengths as a leader, such as her commitment to social justice and her willingness to take on powerful interests. However, Bolle also acknowledges Rousseff's weaknesses, such as her lack of political experience and her tendency to be inflexible and authoritarian.

The Impeachment Crisis

The central focus of the book is the impeachment crisis that led to Rousseff's removal from office in 2016. Bolle provides a blow-by-blow account of the events leading up to the impeachment, including the corruption scandals that embroiled Rousseff's government and the growing opposition to her policies. She argues that the impeachment was a political coup, orchestrated by powerful elites who feared Rousseff's commitment to social reform.

The Legacy of Dilma Rousseff

Bolle concludes her book by reflecting on the legacy of Dilma Rousseff. She argues that Rousseff's presidency was a watershed moment in Brazilian history, exposing the deep divisions within society and challenging the status quo. While Rousseff was ultimately unsuccessful in her efforts to transform Brazil, Bolle argues that her presidency has left a lasting impact on the country and that her legacy will continue to shape Brazilian politics for years to come.

Why You Should Read This Book

"How to Kill the Blue Morpho Butterfly" is a must-read for anyone interested in Brazilian politics, Latin American history, or the challenges of democracy in the 21st century. Bolle's book is a powerful and thought-provoking account of a country in crisis, and it offers valuable insights into the forces that are shaping the future of Brazil and the region.

About the Author

Monica Baumgarten de Bolle is a Brazilian journalist and political analyst. She has written extensively on Brazilian politics and society, and her work has appeared in publications such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Guardian. She is currently a professor of international relations at the University of São Paulo.