Brazil Basic Info Comparative Politics

1988

Brazil adopts new very democratic constitution creating a federative state (culmination of the gradual and slow process of democratic transition under military supervision)

2003

First election of Lula da Silva, ushering in thirteen years of PT government characterized by ambitious social policies

2013

Massive protests denouncing corruption and the insufficient funding of public services

2014

Beginning of the Lava Jato (Car Wash) anti-corruption operation.

2016

Impeachment of President Dilma Rousseff for manipulating the Federal budget

2023

Coup attempt by Bolsonaro's supporters following his defeat against Lula in the 2022 elections

Fernando Henrique Cardoso

Former sociologist and President (1995-2003) who introduced ambitious affirmative action policies as well as neoliberal economic reforms.

Lula da Silva

Former metalworker and leader of the PT, president from 2003 to 2011 and since 2022, introduced the Bolsa Familia, jailed for corruption before the charges were dropped

Marielle Franco

Black feminist LGBTQ+ activist assassinated in 2017 in Rio de Janeiro by former police officers, probably under the order of politicians.

Sergio Moro

Anti-corruption judge turned minister of Justice under Bolsonaro, accused of bias against the left, particularly Lula

Jair Bolsonaro

Former military officer turned far-right anti-system politician. He was elected President in 2018 and supported a failed coup after his defeat in 2022.