Day 22 - Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

If you have been following along, one might think I am really down on Brazil and her people. Not true. Let me put the previous posts into perspective.

This was my first trip to Brazil and it reminded me of Cuba. I wanted to know why both countries seemed similar? What happened in Brazil and why did it happen? Are the issues being addressed? What is slowing Brazil's progress?

Many of the lingering concerns are related to Brazil's military dictatorship from 1964 to 1985. The overthrow began with social concerns within factions of the military and conservative civilians. These concerns included perceived communist threats, corruption allegations, economic instability and general social unrest.

In 1964, based on the above social concerns the military successfully overthrew the democratically elected President João Goulart. Initially the military intervention was portrayed as necessary to protect democracy and prevent a communist takeover. However, once in power, the military established a regime that suspended democratic institutions, censored the media and repressed political opposition. Brazil entered a prolonged period of authoritarian rule.

Brazil's military dictatorship came to an end by gradually transitioning towards a democratic regime. With the help of internal and external pressures, a new democratic system and constitution were founded in 1988.

Thank you courageous people of Brazil for sharing the ugly side of humanity when governments fail and society crumbles. You are not alone, many strong nations have fallen at the hands of corrupt leaders and their lies. Not many survive, regain control, instill hope and demonstrate that determination and hard work can take back a nation. Hopefully sharing your struggles helps others understand democracy may not be perfect, but is second to none and worth preserving.

It is worth noting no nation is immune to tyranny. It can happen to us. Chose your leaders carefully. Don't base your selection on emotions, fear or empty promises. Is the individual morally strong? Choose your next leader based on their past performances. Look at their decision making process. Do they seek out and consider alternatives? Do they surround themselves with honest trustworthy individuals? Have past decisions been made with the people's best interest in mind? Avoid self centered individuals who typically bias decisions in their favor. Are they consistent or change views based on the current audience? Be cautious of individuals fixated on achieving status or retaining control. Avoid those who blame others. Choose problem solvers. Put yourself in their shoes. The most difficult decisions are those with no good options. Procrastination is seldom the best solution. What would you do? Select your leaders wisely. It shouldn't be a popularity contest. True leadership is a tough thankless job.