Brazil is a culturally diverse South American nation; this is a testament to its history and location. Today this rich mix of people from different racial backgrounds and cultural heritage has resulted in a vibrant society not found in many places around the world.

The Portuguese who arrived on the Brazilian Coast by chance settled here and declared Brazil a Portuguese colony. Native Indians had inhabited the land for over 9,000 years before the arrival of the Portuguese.

The Portuguese used the Indians as slaves to work on the sugar plantations and mines. With an anticipated manpower shortage, large numbers of slaves from Africa were brought to the country. Slavery by landowners remained until 1888 when forced labor was completely abolished.

A land rich in natural resources and a lot of potential, the country attracted migrants from; Germany, Italy, Spain, Japan and Uzbekistan in Eastern Europe.

All these people have contributed to the present day Brazilian population.

Cultural influences:

The different peoples in the country have contributed in a number of ways to define the present Brazilian society.

This is present in local cuisine which is tantalizing and features a selection of; European, Indian and Afro influences. There are also the carnivals, music and the arts which are mostly derived from the African origins of the people here.

There is also the Capoeira which is a unique Brazilian martial art started by the African slaves centuries ago.