História da Segurança Pública no Brasil Pt.1

Summary

The video explores the historical evolution of public security in Brazil, starting from its colonial period. It details the development of defense mechanisms, such as local militias and ordensanças, and their regulation by Portuguese law. The formation of the Royal Police Intendance in 1808 marked a significant shift in public order, laying the foundation for modern security systems. The script also covers the impact of the creation of criminal codes and the challenges faced by authorities throughout Brazil’s imperial and republic periods in maintaining public order and safety.

Takeaways

• 😀 The history of public security in Brazil can be divided into three main periods: the colonial period, the Empire, and the Republic.
• 😀 During the colonial era, the Portuguese were primarily focused on defending Brazilian territory, and they empowered local populations for self-defense.
• 😀 The first governor-general, Tomé de Souza, brought a troop of 600 men to Brazil, but the local population also created their own means of defense, such as the 'ordenanças' in São Vicente.
• 😀 'Ordenanças' were civilian defense groups created by villagers to protect against invasions. They existed in Portugal since medieval times and were formally established in Brazil in 1570.
• 😀 The members of the 'ordenanças' were men aged 18 to 60, who trained on Sundays and holidays, using their own weapons, with rewards for the best marksmen.
• 😀 In 1640, a reform led to the creation of a new military unit known as 'auxiliary troops,' which eventually evolved into 'milícias' (militias) in 1796, becoming a significant force in Portuguese colonies.
• 😀 Milícias were organized by region and commanded by 'coronéis' (colonels). Initially, officers were elected by the local population but later chosen by governors.
• 😀 Milícias had different branches based on social class, such as urban troops consisting of merchants and former slaves who hunted runaway slaves.
• 😀 During the colonial period, laws regulating justice and public order were created, with criminal investigations being led by judges, and the population was required to fulfill various law enforcement roles.
• 😀 In 1808, after the royal family arrived in Brazil, the government established the 'Intendência Geral de Polícia' to manage urban order, marking the beginning of organized public security in Brazil.
• 😀 The 'Intendência' created the Royal Guard of Police of the Court, led by military personnel, including the controversial Major Miguel, who became well-known for his forceful methods of maintaining order.

Q & A

What was the main concern of the Portuguese during the colonial period in Brazil?

The main concern of the Portuguese was defending Brazilian territory, ensuring its protection against external threats and maintaining control over the population.

What were the 'Ordenanças' in the colonial period, and why were they created?

The 'Ordenanças' were organizations created by local villagers with the goal of defending their communities from invasions, including those by indigenous groups. They were established officially in Brazil in 1570.

What was the structure of the 'Ordenanças' in Brazil during the colonial period?

The 'Ordenanças' were organized into regiments, each consisting of companies with 25 men per squadron. These regiments had leaders chosen by the governor or the king, and all able-bodied men between 18 and 60 were required to participate.

What types of arms did members of the 'Ordenanças' use?

Members of the 'Ordenanças' used weapons such as arquebuses, crossbows, spears, and swords, which were privately owned by the participants.

How did the 'Milícias' differ from the 'Ordenanças'?

The 'Milícias' were a more formalized military force created in the 17th century with a specific focus on aiding the regular army. They became more structured and were regulated by laws after 1796, with their commanders being called 'coronels.'

What was the role of the 'Milícias' in colonial Brazil?

The 'Milícias' served as local defense units, often organized by social classes or professional groups. They were responsible for protecting territories, suppressing rebellions, and, in some cases, hunting runaway slaves.

What was the role of 'Quadrilheiros' in the context of law enforcement during the colonial period?

The 'Quadrilheiros' were groups of 20 local residents who were tasked with maintaining order in their communities. They enforced judicial decisions, patrolled the streets, and ensured public safety, essentially acting as a form of community policing.

How did the arrival of the Royal Family in Brazil in 1808 impact public security?

The arrival of the Royal Family in 1808 led to the creation of the 'Intendência Geral de Polícia,' which was responsible for maintaining public order in the cities, managing resources like water supply, and handling issues like crime and disorder.

What was the role of the 'Guarda Real da Polícia da Corte'?

The 'Guarda Real da Polícia da Corte' was a military police force established to maintain order in Rio de Janeiro. It was led by Major Miguel, who became known for his efficient yet sometimes arbitrary methods.

What changes occurred in the public security system during the Brazilian Empire?

During the Brazilian Empire, especially after 1830, the government took more responsibility for public security. The creation of the 'Código Criminal' helped regulate law enforcement, and the structure of the police evolved into a more organized system.