The Construction of University Geography in Rio de Janeiro: A History of the Department of Geography at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro

Introduction

The Department of Geography at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) is one of the most important and prestigious geography departments in Brazil. It has a long and distinguished history, dating back to the early 20th century. This book tells the story of the department's founding and development, and its role in the development of geography in Brazil.

The Early Years

The Department of Geography at UFRJ was founded in 1934, as part of the Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters. The department's first director was Professor Aroldo de Azevedo, who was a leading figure in Brazilian geography. Under Azevedo's leadership, the department quickly became a center for geographical research and teaching.

In the early years, the department's curriculum was focused on physical geography and cartography. However, in the 1940s and 1950s, the department began to expand its curriculum to include human geography and regional studies. This expansion was due in part to the influence of visiting professors from the United States and Europe, who brought new ideas and approaches to geography.

The Department's Growth and Development

In the 1960s and 1970s, the Department of Geography at UFRJ experienced a period of rapid growth and development. The number of faculty members and students increased significantly, and the department's research and teaching programs were expanded. This growth was due in part to the increasing demand for geographers in Brazil, as the country underwent rapid economic and social change.

During this period, the department also became a center for political activism. Many of the department's faculty members and students were involved in the fight against the military dictatorship that ruled Brazil from 1964 to 1985. The department's activism led to the arrest and imprisonment of several faculty members and students.

The Department Today

Today, the Department of Geography at UFRJ is one of the leading geography departments in Brazil. The department has a strong faculty of over 50 professors, and it offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The department's research program is focused on a variety of topics, including physical geography, human geography, regional studies, and environmental studies.

The Department of Geography at UFRJ has played a vital role in the development of geography in Brazil. The department's faculty and students have made significant contributions to the understanding of Brazil's geography, and they have helped to shape the country's geography education system. The department is a proud part of UFRJ, and it looks forward to continuing its tradition of excellence in research and teaching.

Conclusion

The Construction of University Geography in Rio de Janeiro is a fascinating and informative book that tells the story of one of the most important geography departments in Brazil. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of geography or the development of Brazil.