Until the Storm Passes: Politicians, Democracy, and the Demise of Brazil's Military Dictatorship

A new ebook, Until the Storm Passes, discusses how Brazil's 1964-1985 military dictatorship contributed to its own demise by alienating civilian political elites. Based on research in archives and oral histories, it shows how politicians' resistance led to democratization, embracing a political role for the masses.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 268 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2023
Publisher: University of California Press

Until the Storm Passes, an insightful and compelling ebook, delves into the intricate web of events that led to the downfall of Brazil's military dictatorship from 1964 to 1985. Through extensive research conducted in nearly twenty archives across five countries, as well as through oral histories with surviving politicians from that era, this book unveils the surprising story of how the political class, initially instrumental in bringing the dictatorship to power, played a pivotal role in its eventual demise.

Initially, the political class exhibited a mix of self-interest and heroism, engaging in resistance against the military regime while also seeking to consolidate their own power. However, as the tides of political change began to sweep across Brazil, politicians gradually shifted their stance, recognizing the need to embrace a political role for the masses. This shift was a significant departure from their initial rejection of popular participation, setting the stage for a breathtaking expansion of democracy that would characterize Brazil for the next three decades.

The resistance of the political class was multifaceted and varied. Some politicians sought to undermine the military regime through covert means, such as supporting opposition movements and leaking classified information. Others took a more overt approach, organizing protests and rallies and advocating for democratic reforms. Some even risked their lives by opposing the regime's brutal tactics, such as torture and executions.

Despite the challenges and risks, the political class's resistance was ultimately successful in bringing about the downfall of the military dictatorship. Their willingness to embrace a political role for the masses and their willingness to challenge the regime's authority paved the way for a new era of democracy in Brazil.

Until the Storm Passes is a valuable contribution to the study of political history and offers a fresh perspective on the complex dynamics of power and resistance in Latin America. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of Brazil's past and the potential for democratic transformation in the future.

Weight: 388g
Dimension: 152 x 231 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520388352