Quem foi Getúlio Vargas? - Brasil Escola

Summary

This video provides an insightful look at Getúlio Vargas, one of Brazil's most significant political figures. Born in 1882, Vargas served as president twice, once through a 1930 coup and again through direct election in 1951. His leadership, known as Vargasismo, was marked by his creation of state-owned companies like Petrobras and Vale do Rio Doce, and his emphasis on economic nationalism. Despite facing political opposition and a crisis in 1954, Vargas left a lasting legacy before his tragic suicide. The video explores his complex life, his impact on Brazilian politics, and his role in shaping the nation's social policies.

Takeaways

• 😀 Getúlio Vargas was born on April 19, 1882, in São Borja, Rio Grande do Sul, and died on August 24, 1954, in Rio de Janeiro.
• 😀 Vargas is known for his populist political style, which became known as Getulismo or Varguismo.
• 😀 He was called the 'Father of Workers' due to his creation of the CLT (Consolidation of Labor Laws) and other social measures.
• 😀 Vargas was instrumental in the creation of state-owned companies like Vale do Rio Doce and Petrobras.
• 😀 Getúlio married Darcy Lima in 1911 when she was just 15 years old, and their marriage helped resolve political rivalries in Rio Grande do Sul.
• 😀 Vargas held various political roles, including lawyer, senator, deputy, minister, and president of Brazil twice.
• 😀 He was the only president to have been elected both indirectly (through an electoral college) and directly (by popular vote).
• 😀 Vargas initially came to power in 1930 through a coup, leading to 15 years in office during the Era Vargas, from 1930 to 1945.
• 😀 His first presidency ended in 1945, but he was re-elected in 1951 for a second term, returning through direct elections.
• 😀 Vargas advocated for economic nationalism, promoting state control over natural resources and limiting foreign capital influence in Brazil.
• 😀 His second presidency ended abruptly when he committed suicide in 1954 amid a political crisis and opposition pressure, leaving a legacy that shaped Brazilian politics for years.

Q & A

Who was Getúlio Vargas and what is his significance in Brazilian history?

Getúlio Vargas was a prominent Brazilian politician who served as president for two non-consecutive terms. He is known for his populist policies and for being the founder of the 'Vargas Era' or 'Era Vargas,' which lasted from 1930 to 1945. He was responsible for significant social reforms, such as the creation of the CLT (Consolidation of Labor Laws), and for promoting the development of state-owned enterprises like Petrobras.

What were the key events of Getúlio Vargas' first presidential term?

Vargas' first term began in 1930 after he led a coup against the government, despite not winning the elections. His presidency lasted from 1930 to 1945 and is known as the 'Vargas Era.' During this time, he implemented social policies, created state-owned companies, and introduced labor laws that benefited the working class. In 1937, he established a dictatorial regime called the 'Estado Novo' (New State) to consolidate his power.

What was the 'Estado Novo' and why was it significant?

The 'Estado Novo' (New State) was a dictatorial regime established by Vargas in 1937, following a political crisis and fears of communist influences in Brazil. This regime allowed Vargas to rule by decree, centralizing power and suppressing opposition. It marked a shift in Brazil's political landscape and was significant for its authoritarian nature, which lasted until 1945.

What is Getúlio Vargas' relationship with the working class in Brazil?

Getúlio Vargas earned the title 'Father of the Workers' due to his creation of labor laws that protected workers' rights. His most notable achievement in this area was the creation of the CLT (Consolidation of Labor Laws) in 1943, which consolidated labor rights in Brazil. These actions were part of his populist approach, which aimed to secure the support of the working class.

What was the impact of the 1954 assassination attempt on Carlos Lacerda on Vargas' presidency?

The 1954 assassination attempt on journalist Carlos Lacerda, a major political opponent of Vargas, escalated the political crisis surrounding Vargas. The attempt, which left Lacerda injured and killed one of his bodyguards, led to intense pressure on Vargas to resign. This event, combined with increasing political opposition, contributed to Vargas' decision to commit suicide later that year.

How did Vargas return to the presidency in 1951?

Vargas returned to the presidency in 1951 through direct elections. After his removal from power in 1945, he was elected again with popular support. This time, his return was marked by a democratic election, which was a significant moment in Brazilian politics as Vargas was the first president to be elected both indirectly and directly.

What were the main political groups opposed to Vargas during his second presidency?

During Vargas' second presidency (1951-1954), he faced opposition from several political groups, most notably the União Democrática Nacional (UDN), a conservative-liberal party. This group was against Vargas' nationalist economic policies, which emphasized state intervention and control over foreign capital. Journalists like Carlos Lacerda were also vocal critics of Vargas.

What was the significance of Vargas' 'Carta Testamento' (Testament Letter)?

Vargas' 'Carta Testamento' (Testament Letter) was a powerful final message he wrote before committing suicide in 1954. In it, he expressed his dedication to Brazil and his belief in the nation's future. The letter emphasized his sacrifices for the country and criticized those who opposed him. It became an iconic symbol of his political legacy and is often quoted in discussions about his life.

What was the political and public reaction to Vargas' death?

Vargas' death in 1954 led to widespread national mourning in Brazil. His funeral drew large crowds, and his death was a pivotal moment in Brazilian history. The emotional response reflected his deep connection with the people, especially the working class. His death also had political consequences, weakening his opposition and shifting the political landscape.

How did Getúlio Vargas' legacy influence Brazil after his death?

Vargas' legacy continued to shape Brazil's political and economic landscape long after his death. Many of his policies, including the establishment of state-owned enterprises and labor laws, persisted in Brazilian politics. His influence is seen in the policies of future leaders, and he is considered one of the most important figures in Brazilian history. In 2010, Vargas was included in the list of 'National Heroes' in Brazil.