Afro-Brazilian Culture

10-Day Sample Program in Salvador and Rio de Janeiro

From the time of its colonization, Brazil has had more influence from Africa than arguably any other country in the Americas. During the Atlantic slave trade, Brazil (by way of the Portuguese) imported more African slaves than any other country. By the time slavery was abolished in Brazil, an estimated five million slaves had been imported from Africa to Brazil, 40% of the total number of slaves brought to the Americas; more than two million slaves came through Rio alone, more than five times the number brought to U.S. Today, this has contributed to Brazil having the largest population of peoples of African descent, outside of Nigeria.

In this sphere African influence has been a defining force behind Brazilian culture. From dance and music to culinary and religious traditions, Afro Brazilians have hugely influenced popular Brazilian culture. However a troubled history rooted in slavery — Brazil was the last country in the world to abolish slavery, 1888 — and continued through pigmentocracy and racially driven economic disparity, Afro Brazilians have had an inequitable relationship with ‘white’ Brazilian society.

This platform provides learners with an experience to better understand African influence on Brazil, and the ongoing struggle for afrodescendent Brazilians.

Wingate University in Salvador - Study Abroad

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in Salvador

Bem Vindo! (Welcome to Brazil!):
From now on, relax and let us take care of everything to make sure you'll have an amazing experience.

- Orientation Session:

After check in, there will be a group Orientation Session about the program and Safety & Culture in Brazil.

- Salvador Cultural Tour:

Salvador has the largest number of African descendents outside the African continent. About 80% of the population is of African origin and this can be seen in various aspects of the Culture in Salvador such as food, religion, music, dance and visual arts. This tour will take you to Pelourinho, the downtown area, where the African roots and the city foundation are intensely connected.

- Welcome Dinner:

Group dinner at a traditional Brazilian restaurant to kick off the program!

Day 2 -

- Lecture with a Brazilian Professor:
Brazil: History and Culture

- Drum Workshop at Olodum:

Olodum is a bloco-afro from Salvador's carnival. It was founded in the seventies for residents of Pelourinho neighborhood, guaranteeing them the right to play at the carnival in one block and in an organized manner. It is a non-governmental organization of the Brazilian black movement.

Day 3 -

- Visit and talk with SEMUR – the Municipal Department of Repair:

Visit to the Municipal Department of Repair known as a promoter of racial equality, social inclusion of African descents and promotion of diversity.

- Capoeira Workshop:

Capoeira is a brazilian martial art with its roots originating in Angola and the Congo, that combines elements of dance, acrobatics] and music, and is usually referred to as a game. It was developed in Brazil mainly by West Africans, beginning in the 16th century.