Soccer and Racism: The Beginnings of Futebol in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, 1895-1933

This book explores how soccer emerged in Brazil and how the country's elites reacted to it, focusing on how it reflected the desire of the new Republic to be accepted by the white civilized world.

Format: Hardback
Length: 72 pages
Publication date: 12 July 2022
Publisher: Anthem Press

This captivating book takes readers on a historical journey, using soccer as a lens to explore pivotal moments in Brazil's history. From the overthrow of the Monarchy in 1889 to the 1930 Revolution that brought Getulio Vargas to power—the so-called First Republic—this book delves deep into the complexities of Brazilian society.

More specifically, this book aims to demonstrate that the emergence of soccer and the responses of the elites to this sport can be primarily attributed to the desire of the new Republic, heavily influenced by racist attitudes inherent in Social Darwinism. The goal was to integrate Brazil into the white civilized world and establish its place among global powers.

As a result, the early years of football in Brazil were shaped by Eurocentric views of the world, particularly in racial terms. The Brazilian elites sought acceptance and recognition from the civilized white world, leading to the adoption of racist attitudes within the football community.

This book offers a unique perspective on the intersection of soccer, history, and race in Brazil, shedding light on the complex dynamics that have shaped the country's social and political landscape. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the rich tapestry of Brazil's past and its ongoing struggle for equality and social justice.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 229 x 153 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839984754