Day 19 - Recife, Brazil

Recife and Fortaleza are colonization sister cities and continue struggling with cultural issues shaping their current social dynamics. Rather than dwelling on these issues, our Recife tour guide reviewed the colonization period and the lasting affects on society.

Portuguese colonization began in the early 1500's followed by on going territorial disputes with the Spanish and Dutch. After political turmoil, multiple ruling governments, corruption and a revolution, the populous became distrustful of authorities and governments. We observed this in Fortaleza, when a cathedral on the tour was unexpectedly closed. The guide apologized, but stated "This is what to expect. After all, this is Brazil".

We see people in Brazil, like most of Latin America, struggling just to exist. Living conditions are poor with little hope for improvement. They tend to live for today because tomorrow has no guarantee. They are surviving impossible conditions. Given an opportunity, these people would move mountains.

Despite the ongoing issues and endless struggling, national pride is alive and well in Brazil. Everyone wants to be associated with success and the Brazilians found it in football a.k.a. soccer. Known as a world powerhouse they have established and continue to support a world class team. Give them an honest government and they will back it too.