For Land and Liberty: Black Struggles in Rural Brazil

For Land and Liberty explores the history and struggles of Brazil's quilombola communities, who face challenges accessing land and combating racism. The book argues that quilombola identity is rooted in history and highlights the ways in which state actors and large landholders have appropriated quilombo land.

Format: Hardback
Length: 249 pages
Publication date: 22 April 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

For Land and Liberty is a comprehensive exploration of the historical and contemporary realities surrounding Brazil's quilombos, or African-descent rural communities, and their inhabitants, the quilombolas. The book delves into the contentious nature of quilombola claims to land as a focal point of contention over citizenship and its profound implications for Afro-descendants. It also examines the intricate connections between quilombolas and the broader struggle against racism. Contrary to the prevailing narrative that quilombola identity is a recent invention, crafted solely to capitalize on opportunities afforded by the 1988 law, Bowen compellingly argues that quilombola claims have deep historical and local roots. She uncovers how state actors have collaborated with large landholders and modernization schemes to seize quilombo land, and further highlights the ongoing challenges faced by quilombolas, even after obtaining land titles, due to the pervasive effects of systemic racism. Through a meticulous analysis of the quilombo movement and local initiatives, this book presents fresh insights into the resurgence of movements, mobilization, and resistance in Brazil.

Introduction:
For Land and Liberty offers a profound examination of the complex relationship between land, identity, and social justice in Brazil. By exploring the historical and contemporary circumstances surrounding Brazil's quilombos, or African-descent rural communities, and their inhabitants, the quilombolas, the book sheds light on the ongoing struggles and challenges faced by these communities.

Historical Context:
The quilombo movement in Brazil has a rich and complex history, dating back to the 16th century when enslaved Africans were brought to the country to work on plantations. Over time, quilombolas have faced numerous challenges, including discrimination, forced labor, and the loss of their ancestral lands. Despite these hardships, quilombolas have maintained their cultural traditions, languages, and practices, and have continued to advocate for their rights and dignity.

Contemporary Challenges:
In the contemporary era, quilombolas continue to face significant challenges. One of the most pressing issues is the struggle for land rights. Many quilombolas have been forced off their ancestral lands due to land speculation, development projects, and government policies that prioritize commercial interests over community needs. This has led to widespread displacement and dispossession, with many quilombolas living in poverty and without access to basic services.

Citizenship and Identity:
Another critical aspect of the quilombo movement is the struggle for citizenship and recognition. Quilombolas have long been marginalized and excluded from mainstream Brazilian society, often facing discrimination and marginalization. Despite their contributions to Brazilian history and culture, quilombolas have often been denied access to basic rights and benefits, such as education, healthcare, and political representation.

State Actors and Modernization Schemes:
State actors have played a significant role in perpetuating the marginalization of quilombolas. In the past, government policies and programs have aimed to modernize rural areas and promote economic development, often at the expense of quilombola communities. State agencies have colluded with large landholders and modernization schemes to appropriate quilombo land, often without proper consultation or compensation for the quilombolas.

Resistance and Mobilization:
Despite these challenges, quilombolas have demonstrated resilience and mobilization in their fight for land rights and recognition. Community organizations, grassroots movements, and social activists have worked tirelessly to advocate for quilombola rights and to raise awareness about the ongoing struggles of these communities. These efforts have led to some progress, including the recognition of quilombola land rights and the implementation of policies to protect quilombo communities.

Conclusion:
For Land and Liberty is a valuable contribution to the study of land, identity, and social justice in Brazil. By examining the historical and contemporary circumstances surrounding quilombolas and their struggles, the book offers a nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics that shape these communities. It highlights the importance of recognizing and respecting the rights of quilombolas and the need to address the systemic inequalities that perpetuate their marginalization. The book also provides valuable insights into the broader fight against racism and the challenges faced by marginalized communities in Brazil.

Weight: 542g
Dimension: 158 x 236 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108832359