Joao Goulart - Valerio Campos / Flora Maestri
João Goulart: A Biography
By Valério Campos and Flora Maestri
Introduction
João Goulart was a Brazilian politician who served as the 24th president of Brazil from 1961 to 1964. He was a controversial figure who was both admired and reviled during his lifetime. His supporters saw him as a champion of the poor and oppressed, while his detractors viewed him as a communist sympathizer who was leading Brazil down a dangerous path.
In this biography, Valério Campos and Flora Maestri provide a comprehensive and balanced account of Goulart's life and career. They draw on a wide range of sources, including archival materials, interviews with Goulart's contemporaries, and the president's own writings. The result is a nuanced and insightful portrait of a complex and fascinating figure.
Early Life and Career
João Goulart was born in São Borja, Rio Grande do Sul, on March 1, 1918. He came from a wealthy family of landowners and ranchers. Goulart was educated at the University of Rio Grande do Sul, where he studied law. After graduating, he returned to São Borja and began practicing law.
Goulart's political career began in the 1940s. He was elected to the Rio Grande do Sul state legislature in 1946 and served as the state's governor from 1951 to 1955. During his time as governor, Goulart implemented a number of progressive policies, including land reform and increased social welfare spending.
The Presidency
Goulart was elected president of Brazil in 1961. He took office at a time of great turmoil in the country. Brazil was facing a severe economic crisis, and the country was deeply divided politically. Goulart's presidency was marked by a number of challenges, including inflation, labor unrest, and political opposition.
Despite these challenges, Goulart managed to make some progress during his time in office. He implemented a number of social welfare programs, and he also began to address the issue of land reform. However, Goulart's presidency was cut short in 1964 when he was overthrown by a military coup.
Exile and Death
After being overthrown, Goulart went into exile in Uruguay. He lived in Uruguay for the next 12 years. During his time in exile, Goulart continued to be active in politics. He wrote a number of books and articles, and he also gave speeches and interviews.
Goulart returned to Brazil in 1976. He died in Brasília on December 6, 1976.
Legacy
João Goulart was a controversial figure who left a lasting legacy on Brazil. He was a champion of the poor and oppressed, and he fought for social justice throughout his life. Goulart's presidency was cut short by a military coup, but his ideas and ideals continue to inspire people around the world.
Conclusion
João Goulart was a complex and fascinating figure. He was a man of contradictions who was both admired and reviled during his lifetime. This biography provides a comprehensive and balanced account of Goulart's life and career. It is a must-read for anyone interested in Brazilian history or Latin American politics.
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