Presidente da Semana - Ep. 3 - Prudente de Morais, salvo por um atentado

Summary

This episode delves into the presidency of Prudente de Moraes, Brazil's first civilian president after the establishment of the Republic. It explores his humble beginnings, his pivotal role in Brazil's transition from monarchy to republic, and his challenges as president, including tensions with military factions and health issues. Despite being unpopular, Prudente navigated political turmoil, including an assassination attempt, ultimately stabilizing the country and laying the foundation for future governance. His careful leadership style and efforts to unite the nation's elites set the stage for the Republic's consolidation, with lasting impacts on Brazil's political landscape.

Takeaways

• 😀 Prudente de Moraes became the third president of Brazil in 1894, but his inauguration was marked by significant disrespect and logistical issues.
• 😀 Unlike his military predecessors, Prudente was a civilian president and a strong supporter of republican ideals.
• 😀 Prudente was not warmly received at his inauguration, with no official reception or music band to greet him upon his arrival in Rio de Janeiro.
• 😀 He faced a chaotic situation with an abandoned presidential palace, lack of furniture, and a country embroiled in economic crisis and civil war.
• 😀 His government focused on demilitarizing the administration, particularly after two military presidents, Deodoro and Floriano, had been in power.
• 😀 Prudente was a reserved and serious man, preferring the company of his family and old friends over ministers or congress members.
• 😀 He played a central role in the Republican movement, coming from the influential Paulista Republican Party that admired the liberal republic of the United States.
• 😀 A comparison was made between Prudente and Abraham Lincoln, noting their physical similarities and shared challenges, including their involvement in civil wars and survival of assassination attempts.
• 😀 Prudente's government was deeply affected by military opposition, particularly from Floriano Peixoto's supporters, which led to the famous Canudos War.
• 😀 Prudente survived an assassination attempt in 1897, which ultimately increased his popularity and solidified his position until the end of his term in 1898.

Q & A

What was the significance of Prudente de Moraes' inauguration in Brazil's history?

Prudente de Moraes' inauguration was significant because he was the first civilian president of Brazil, elected by popular vote, marking a shift from military rule to civilian governance. It represented a pivotal moment in the consolidation of the Brazilian Republic.

What challenges did Prudente de Moraes face upon his arrival in Rio de Janeiro for his inauguration?

Upon his arrival in Rio de Janeiro, Prudente de Moraes faced several challenges: there was no official reception, no music band, and he was left waiting for a ride. Eventually, he had to take a rented carriage and even accepted a ride from the British ambassador to reach his inauguration.

Why was Prudente de Moraes' presidency initially met with opposition?

Prudente de Moraes' presidency was met with opposition primarily from those loyal to his predecessor, Floriano Peixoto, and other military factions. His conciliatory approach, including efforts to negotiate peace and amnesty for rebels, made him unpopular among radical military groups.

How did Prudente de Moraes' health affect his presidency?

Prudente de Moraes suffered from kidney stones and had to step away from his duties multiple times for medical treatment. During these absences, Manuel Vitorino, his vice president, temporarily took over the administration, which created tensions due to Vitorino's own ambitions.

How did the Guerra de Canudos impact Prudente de Moraes' presidency?

The Guerra de Canudos, a rebellion in the Bahia region, greatly affected Prudente de Moraes' presidency. The conflict with the rebellious village exposed the weakness of the Brazilian military and caused public dissatisfaction. Prudente's eventual handling of the situation was crucial in shaping his presidency.

What led to the assassination attempt on Prudente de Moraes in 1897?

The assassination attempt on Prudente de Moraes in 1897 was likely linked to the political opposition from radical military groups, especially those loyal to Floriano Peixoto. These groups opposed Prudente's more moderate, conciliatory approach, and the attempt was carried out by a soldier who was allegedly part of a broader conspiracy.

How did the assassination attempt on Prudente de Moraes impact his political standing?

The assassination attempt ultimately boosted Prudente de Moraes' political standing. It shifted public perception, and the populace began to rally behind him, seeing him as a victim of a conspiracy. This led to a surge in his popularity and strengthened his position in office.

What was the role of Manuel Vitorino during Prudente de Moraes' presidency?

Manuel Vitorino, as vice president, played a controversial role during Prudente de Moraes' presidency. He often took over the presidency when Prudente was ill, and there were suspicions that Vitorino was involved in the conspiracy to assassinate the president due to his dissatisfaction with Prudente's leadership.

How did Prudente de Moraes' presidency help stabilize Brazil after its early republican turmoil?

Prudente de Moraes' presidency helped stabilize Brazil by de-escalating tensions between military factions and civilian authorities, fostering dialogue, and negotiating peace in the Guerra de Canudos. His careful, cautious leadership also laid the groundwork for a more stable republic, culminating in the agreement known as the 'café com leite' politics.

What is the significance of the comparison between Prudente de Moraes and Abraham Lincoln?

The comparison between Prudente de Moraes and Abraham Lincoln highlights several parallels: both were lawyers, became president around the same age, and faced severe civil conflicts (the American Civil War and the Guerra de Canudos). Both also survived assassination attempts. This comparison underscores Prudente's role as a foundational figure in Brazil's republican history, much like Lincoln in the U.S.