Notes on Military Government and Development in Brazil

Technocratic Authoritarianism and Economic Expansion

• The military government negotiated to meet its development goals, reflecting technocratic authoritarianism.
• The government focused on expanding banking to boost manufacturing, a growth model similar to the Soviet model and conventional development economics.
• The core idea was rapid capital formation.

Increased Repression and Economic Downturn

• Between 1968 and 1973, the military government became more repressive due to opposition following the shutdown of democracy.
• As the economy declined, people started to notice the increased repression.

Improvements in Living Standards

• Despite the repression, educational enrollment rates increased.
• Human standards of living improved.
• Life expectancy increased.
• Technocratic, authoritarian governments often implemented programs that raised material standards of living for most of the population.
• Economic and social statistics generally improved under these regimes, reflecting a strong developmentalist approach.

Deadweight and Economic Problems

• Building large concrete bridges in remote areas to connect non-existent roads is a sign of economic problems, indicating deadweight that hinders progress.

Military's Exit Strategy

• The military decided to exit due to economic problems.

Distant Sound

• Jurists argued for adherence to the constitutional system.
• A process called 'distant sound' was initiated to reduce political repression and restore democracy and influence.