WHEN AN EMPIRE COLLAPSES, HOW WOULD A CAPOEIRISTA SURVIVE IT?

Greetings! If you want to understand what you are about to read better and gain some valuable context, I highly encourage you to take a moment to watch this insightful video clip from the 1976 movie, The Network. This film, with its powerful commentary on media and society, provides an essential backdrop that will not only enhance your comprehension but also provoke thought about the themes we encounter.

Okay, Now that we got that outta the way, let’s begin.

I came across this video, and as a Capoeirista, I thought about what would a capoeirista would do to survive and thrive if and when an empire collapses.

What you will read below this video, is my answer.

For over two millennia, the trajectory of dominant empires has followed a remarkably consistent pattern of collapse—a historical echo that transcends military prowess, political upheavals, and societal transformations. The true architects of imperial downfall have, time and again, been internal economic self-destruction. This isn’t a sudden, cataclysmic event, but rather a slow, insidious erosion, often beginning with the very foundation of their financial systems.

Consider the Roman Empire, a civilization synonymous with enduring power. Its decline wasn’t precipitated by a single, decisive military defeat, but by the gradual debasement of its currency. The Roman denarius, once a symbol of stability and purity, was progressively diluted, its silver content dwindling from near-pure to a mere 5% as the empire teetered on the brink. This visible decline in value in their daily transactions bred a pervasive loss of trust among citizens, highlighting the dangerous reliance on monetary inflation as a perceived solution to mounting expenses.

Centuries later, Spain, despite its unprecedented control over the world’s silver from the New World, managed to bankrupt itself repeatedly. The endless influx of wealth, rather than fostering sustainable growth, led to a pervasive complacency and monumental mismanagement. This reflected the profound pitfalls of overconfidence in unearned riches, demonstrating that raw material wealth alone cannot guarantee economic stability without prudent stewardship.

Great Britain, at the zenith of its global influence, witnessed a rapid unraveling of its empire within thirty years of a critical currency crisis. The British pound, once the undisputed reserve currency of the world, lost its preeminent status at Bretton Woods, a direct consequence of two devastating world wars that bankrupted the nation. This underscored the profound and often overlooked consequences of excessive military expenditure, even for a seemingly unassailable global power.

And now, history appears to be repeating itself with the United States. A recent documentary meticulously traces this identical sequence of events across these four empires and two millennia, showcasing the peril of abandoning sound monetary principles. The pattern is a chillingly precise seven-stage sequence:

1. Dominance: A period of unparalleled global influence and economic might, characterized by innovation and expansion.

2. Overextension: Expanding commitments, military presence, and financial obligations beyond sustainable limits, straining resources.
3. Deficit Spending: Persistent expenditure exceeding revenue, leading to accumulating national debt that becomes increasingly unmanageable.
4. Currency Debasement: The deliberate weakening of a currency’s value, often through increased printing or reduced backing, eroding its purchasing power.
5. Inflation: A general and sustained increase in prices and a corresponding fall in the purchasing value of money, leading to economic instability.
6. Loss of Confidence: Both domestically and internationally, in the empire’s economic stability and future, leading to capital flight and reduced investment.
7. Collapse: The ultimate unraveling of the empire’s power and influence, marked by political instability, social unrest, and economic decline.

Rome meticulously followed this trajectory over two centuries, crafting an empire that, despite its architectural and cultural achievements, ultimately succumbed to the very flaws it chose to ignore. Spain, blinded by its colonial riches, defaulted on its debts four times in forty years, highlighting the struggles of a nation that could not cope with its own prosperity and the fundamental principles of economic balance. Britain, in a stark testament to the fragility of imperial power, lost a quarter of the Earth’s surface in just three decades, a rapid decline from its imperial peak.

The United States has now demonstrably completed five stages of this pattern and is entering the sixth, with a growing chorus of indicators mounting that a similarly grim fate awaits. Each empire, in its turn, harbored the fatal delusion that it was somehow different, convinced of its unique strengths and inherent superiority. They believed their military was too strong, their economy too advanced, and that the old rules of history simply didn’t apply to them.

Rome, in its hubris, believed the denarius was eternal, an unshakable pillar of its financial system. Spain, consumed by its endless silver, thought it was invincible, failing to grasp the fundamental reality of economic equilibrium and the dangers of unearned wealth. Britain, with a sense of entitlement to its historical dominance, believed the pound would remain the world’s reserve currency forever, blinded to the forces of change and the consequences of its own actions. All were profoundly wrong, succumbing to overconfidence and tragically neglecting the myriad warnings that surrounded them.

Crucially, every single one of these empires collapsed within decades of these warning signs appearing, revealing the tragic and undeniable irony of repeated history. And every warning sign that preceded their collapses—military overextension, unsustainable debt accumulation, unchecked currency printing, escalating inflation, and a declining reserve currency status—is unequivocally present in the United States right now, echoing the past with alarming and undeniable clarity.

This raises critical and urgent questions: Is the U.S. dollar entering its final phase as the world’s reserve currency? Can the United States somehow break a pattern that has held for two thousand years across four distinct and powerful empires? Or is the seventh stage—the inevitable collapse—a foregone conclusion, despite the hopeful assertions of those who, against all historical evidence, wish to believe that this time will be different? The answers, the documentary powerfully suggests, lie not merely in economic policies and numerical data, but in the collective consciousness of a society. It demands a society that must, with clear eyes and historical understanding, recognize and internalize the lessons of the past before it’s irrevocably too late.

However, thinking about this inevitable reality, a question came to mind: 

When an empire collapses, how would a capoeirista survive it? And more importantly, how would he or she THRIVE from it?

I believe that in the face of such profound societal upheaval, the capoeirista, with their unique and deeply ingrained skill set, would be uniquely positioned not just to survive, but to truly thrive. Drawing from the rich cultural roots of capoeira—a martial art form that arose from adversity and enslavement—the emphasis on adaptability, resilience, and community would become paramount.

Adaptability as a Core Principle:

Capoeira, by its very nature, demands constant adaptation. Its fluid movements, unpredictable rhythms, and dynamic interplay between participants foster a mindset of immediate response to changing circumstances. In a collapsing society, where established norms and systems falter, this ingrained ability to pivot and adjust would be invaluable. A capoeirista wouldn’t be rigid in their approach to problem-solving, but rather, would creatively seek new solutions, much as they would in a roda, or capoeira circle, when confronted with an unexpected movement from an opponent. This mental agility, combined with physical conditioning, would allow them to navigate scarcity, political instability, and social restructuring with greater ease. They would possess the intellectual flexibility to learn new skills, embrace alternative economic models, and forge unexpected alliances, transforming obstacles into opportunities.

Resilience Forged Through Practice:

The practice of capoeira is inherently challenging, demanding physical stamina, mental fortitude, and a willingness to push personal limits. Capoeiristas regularly face discomfort, learn from mistakes, and endure the rigors of training, building a deep well of resilience. This cultivated grit would be crucial in an environment marked by hardship and uncertainty. The ability to endure setbacks, recover from physical and emotional tolls, and maintain a positive outlook in the face of adversity are direct outcomes of consistent capoeira practice. This resilience extends beyond physical endurance, encompassing a mental toughness that allows for perseverance when others might falter, inspiring hope and determination in those around them.

Community as a Pillar of Strength:

Perhaps most importantly, capoeira is fundamentally a communal art form. It is practiced in groups, fostering strong bonds of camaraderie, mutual respect, and shared purpose. In a society in upheaval, the breakdown of social structures can lead to isolation and vulnerability. The capoeirista, already part of a tightly-knit community, would have an immediate support system—a network of individuals bound by shared values and experiences. This community would provide not only emotional support but also practical assistance, facilitating the sharing of resources, knowledge, and skills. The inherent collaborative spirit of capoeira would translate into a strong collective survival strategy, where individual strengths are leveraged for the benefit of the group. Furthermore, the ability to build and maintain social connections, a key aspect of capoeira, would enable capoeiristas to forge new alliances and integrate into emergent social structures, further enhancing their chances of survival and prosperity.

Survival Strategies:

• Blending Tradition with Innovation: A capoeirista’s physical prowess, combining fluid movements, strategic evasion, and powerful strikes, would be invaluable for self-defense and navigating dangerous environments. However, pure combat skills alone are insufficient. They would need to blend these traditional fighting techniques with innovative survival strategies, such as foraging, shelter building, and resource management. The inherent creativity and problem-solving encouraged in capoeira, where improvisation is key, would aid in adapting to chaotic and unpredictable conditions, allowing them to make the most of limited resources and unforeseen circumstances.
• Situational Awareness and Evasion: Capoeira trains practitioners to be acutely aware of their surroundings and to anticipate threats. This heightened situational awareness, coupled with the ability to move swiftly and evade danger, would be critical in a disrupted society where order has broken down. They would instinctively recognize potential hazards, identify safe passages, and react effectively to emergent threats, minimizing their exposure to harm.

• Resourcefulness (Malícia): The “malícia” or cunning integral to capoeira, which involves outsmarting an opponent, would translate into invaluable resourcefulness in a post-collapse world. This would manifest as the ability to find and utilize scarce resources, negotiate complex social dynamics, and identify opportunities where others see only despair. They would be adept at creative problem-solving, leveraging their intelligence to navigate challenges and thrive in adversity.

Thriving Beyond Survival:

• Fostering Community and Connection: A core tenet of capoeira is the “roda,” a circle where practitioners gather, play music, and engage in the game. This inherent emphasis on community, cooperation, and solidarity would lead capoeiristas to actively seek out and foster connections with fellow practitioners and other members of their community. In a post-collapse world, these social networks would be invaluable for mutual support, sharing knowledge, and collective action, providing a foundation for rebuilding.
• Leadership in Rebuilding Efforts: The discipline, leadership, and teaching skills often developed within capoeira academies would empower practitioners to become natural leaders in rebuilding efforts. They could organize groups, establish lines of communication, and provide a sense of structure and purpose in a fractured society, guiding their communities towards recovery and stability.
• Empowerment and Education: Capoeira is more than just a fight; it is a holistic practice encompassing music, dance, history, and philosophy. In a society grappling with the loss of established institutions, capoeiristas could transform their martial arts practice into a powerful means of empowerment, offering physical training, discipline, and a sense of belonging to others. They could establish informal schools, sharing not just physical skills but also the cultural knowledge and historical resilience embedded within capoeira, inspiring a new generation.
• Cultural Preservation: As custodians of a rich cultural tradition, capoeiristas would play a vital role in preserving and transmitting cultural heritage in a time of widespread disruption. The songs, movements, and stories of capoeira would become a living archive, reminding people of their shared history and identity, and providing a source of cultural continuity and pride amidst change.

In the crucible of a collapsing empire, the capoeirista would emerge not merely as a survivor, but as a vibrant force for good, transforming profound adversity into an extraordinary opportunity for growth, community building, and the preservation of a rich cultural legacy. Their journey would be a testament to the indomitable human spirit, a narrative woven with threads of adaptability, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the collective well-being.

The adaptability of the capoeirista, honed through years of dynamic movement and strategic thinking, would be crucial. They would navigate the shifting political landscapes and fragmented social structures with a fluid grace, much like their movements in the roda. This would involve not just physical flexibility but also intellectual agility, allowing them to embrace new ideas, forge unexpected alliances, and creatively repurpose existing resources. They would become masters of improvisation, turning scarcity into innovation, and finding new uses for old traditions. Their ability to think on their feet and adjust to rapidly changing circumstances would make them indispensable in a world devoid of established systems.

Their resilience, forged in the fires of physical training and the mental discipline of their art, would be an unyielding anchor in times of chaos. They would endure hardship with a stoic resolve, their spirits unbroken by the disintegration around them. This resilience would extend beyond personal fortitude, inspiring those around them to persevere, to find strength in unity, and to rebuild even when hope seemed lost. They would be living examples of how to bend without breaking, how to absorb blows and rise again, stronger and more determined. Their unwavering spirit would serve as a powerful beacon of hope and tenacity for their communities.

Central to their triumph would be their unwavering commitment to community. Capoeira, at its heart, is a communal art form, built on interaction, support, and mutual respect. In the wake of an imperial collapse, this ingrained sense of community would expand beyond the roda, becoming a blueprint for a new societal order. The capoeirista would actively engage in fostering social cohesion, bridging divides, and establishing networks of mutual aid. They would leverage their leadership skills, their ability to organize and inspire, to rally people around common goals, fostering a spirit of cooperation and collective responsibility.

This commitment would manifest in various ways:

• Education and Knowledge Transfer: Recognizing the invaluable nature of knowledge, capoeiristas would become conduits of learning. They would not only teach the physical art form, passing down its intricate movements, rhythms, and songs, but also its underlying philosophy of resistance, self-reliance, and cultural pride. Beyond capoeira, they would facilitate the exchange of practical skills, historical narratives, and ethical principles, ensuring that vital information was not lost in the societal upheaval. They would establish informal learning centers, becoming teachers and mentors, empowering others with knowledge and skills.
• Cultural Preservation and Innovation: Amidst the erosion of old structures, the vibrant cultural legacy of capoeira would become a powerful unifying force. The capoeirista would be a guardian of this heritage, ensuring that its music, dance, rituals, and stories continued to thrive. Moreover, they would embrace innovation, allowing capoeira to evolve and adapt to the new realities, perhaps incorporating new movements, instruments, or narratives that reflected the contemporary experience. This dynamic preservation would prevent stagnation and ensure its continued relevance, allowing it to serve as a living testament to human creativity and resilience.
• Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding: The inherent discipline and respect for the game within capoeira would translate into effective strategies for conflict resolution. The capoeirista, accustomed to navigating the interplay of attack and defense in a controlled environment, would apply these principles to mediate disputes, foster understanding, and promote peaceful coexistence within the emerging communities. They would embody a philosophy where confrontation is not about destruction, but about finding balance and resolution, becoming peacekeepers and facilitators of harmony.
• Economic Empowerment and Self-Sufficiency: Drawing on their resourcefulness and adaptability, capoeiristas would contribute to the economic rebuilding of their communities. They might initiate cooperative ventures, teach trades, or lead efforts to cultivate land and develop sustainable practices. Their emphasis on self-sufficiency, a core tenet of their training, would inspire others to take ownership of their destinies and collectively build a more resilient economic foundation, promoting local economies and sustainable living.

In essence, the capoeirista’s role transcends the physical mastery of a martial art; they would evolve into a multifaceted architect of a new society. This transformation entails embracing not only the inherent physicality of their art but also the profound philosophical principles that underpin it, such as resilience, community, and the dynamic interplay of opposition. Their deliberate and mindful actions would ripple outwards, initiating a profound metamorphosis: transforming widespread despair into an unwavering determination, systemic fragmentation into deeply rooted solidarity, and the profound sense of loss into a fertile opportunity for profound renewal.

By actively engaging with their communities, the capoeirista would become a catalyst for change, inspiring others to join in a collective movement. This would foster a potent collective spirit that actively uplifts the marginalized, amplifies the voices of the silenced, and empowers the disheartened. They would emerge as true beacons of hope, their movements not merely a series of practiced steps or a mesmerizing dance, but a living, breathing metaphor for the inherent grace and formidable power with which humanity can collectively overcome even the most daunting and seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Through their meticulous teachings and dynamic demonstrations, the capoeiristas would illustrate in tangible ways how resilience could be cultivated, nurtured, and strengthened within individuals and communities. These teachings would transcend mere physical prowess, delving into the philosophical underpinnings of capoeira—its emphasis on adaptability, the ability to find balance in motion, and the strategic understanding of both self and opponent. Each movement, each rhythm, and each song would serve as a lesson, not only in self-defense but in the art of surmounting adversity, fostering a holistic approach to survival and thriving.

This profound process would foster a deep sense of shared purpose among individuals from diverse backgrounds, bridging divides and cultivating understanding. The shared challenges of learning the art, the mutual support offered during training, and the collective celebration of progress would naturally forge bonds that transcended social, economic, and cultural barriers. In the roda, the sacred circle where capoeira is played, there would be no distinction of origin, only the common humanity expressed through the dance of struggle and liberation. This shared experience would create a powerful sense of belonging, transforming isolated individuals into a cohesive and supportive community.

Ultimately, these capoeiristas would be instrumental in forging a new, more interconnected, and culturally rich future. They would not merely teach a martial art; they would transmit a living philosophy, a heritage of resistance and creative expression that had historically empowered the marginalized. Their impact would extend far beyond the physical realm, influencing social structures and promoting dialogue between previously disparate groups. By celebrating their unique cultural identity and sharing its transformative power, they would invite others to explore and honor their own heritages, leading to a broader appreciation of global diversity.

From the literal and metaphorical ashes of the old, they would create a vibrant tapestry of human experience that meticulously honors both the struggles and the triumphs of the past. The echoes of historical oppression and the strength found in overcoming it would be woven into the very fabric of their new society. This tapestry would acknowledge the lessons learned from past injustices and the victories achieved through persistent effort and collective action. Simultaneously, they would envision and actively build a harmonious and equitable tomorrow, where the wisdom of the past informed the innovations of the future. Their vision was not to forget the pain, but to transform it into a foundation for a more just and compassionate world.

Their legacy would be one of sustained transformation, where art and philosophy converge to build a stronger, more compassionate, and truly unified society. Capoeira, as both an art form and a philosophical framework, would become a powerful catalyst for social change. It would promote not only physical well-being but also mental fortitude, emotional intelligence, and a deep sense of social responsibility. Through their unwavering dedication to these principles, the capoeiristas would leave behind a world reshaped by their vision—a society where the strength of the individual was inextricably linked to the well-being of the community, and where the vibrant expression of culture served as a unifying force for all.

I’m gonna end with this.

Every empire, in its hubris, believes itself to be an exception to the relentless march of history – until, inevitably, history repeats its age-old patterns. This documentary-style breakdown meticulously uncovers a chillingly consistent, six-stage pattern that has orchestrated the downfall of the world’s most powerful governments, from the fiery crucible of France in 1789 to the seismic upheaval of Russia in 1917, and the revolutionary fervor of Cuba in 1959. What’s more, we reveal, with unsettling precision, how the United States in 2025 is alarmingly following the identical script, step by unfolding step.

This compelling video transcends mere historical recounting. It masterfully blends rigorous historical research with insightful economic data and incisive political analysis to illuminate the true genesis of revolutions. They do not, as popularly imagined, begin in abject poverty, but rather in the insidious erosion of trust within a society. We will embark on a revealing exploration of how each of these nations, with their unique histories and contexts, nevertheless crossed the perilous line from the potential for reform to the inevitability of revolution. More critically, we will lay bare why modern America is currently exhibiting identical, unmistakable warning signs: record-breaking wealth gaps, a profound and pervasive distrust in governmental efficacy, a dramatic collapse of faith in the integrity and impartiality of the media, and a alarming rise in political extremism across the ideological spectrum. The echoes of history are growing louder, and understanding these patterns is not merely an academic exercise, but an urgent imperative.

And… How would a Capoeirista survive through a revolution?

In a world teetering on the brink of revolution, where the established order crumbles and chaos reigns supreme, the capoeirista, with their unique blend of martial prowess, cultural resilience, and community spirit, would undoubtedly face a formidable challenge. How, then, would such an individual, deeply rooted in a tradition of both struggle and celebration, navigate the treacherous currents of societal upheaval?

Their physical abilities, honed through years of rigorous training, would certainly be an asset. The agility, strength, and strategic thinking inherent in capoeira movements – the evasive esquivas, the powerful martelos, the deceptive rasteiras – would prove invaluable in self-defense and navigating dangerous environments. They would be adept at recognizing and reacting to threats, their bodies primed for both offense and defense. Furthermore, the inherent fluidity and adaptability of capoeira, which emphasizes improvisation and responsiveness, would allow them to adjust quickly to ever-changing circumstances.

Beyond physical prowess, the capoeirista’s cultural heritage would play a crucial role. The history of capoeira is intrinsically linked to resistance against oppression, a dance of freedom born from the crucible of slavery. This historical context imbues practitioners with a profound understanding of struggle, resilience, and the importance of community in the face of adversity. This deep-seated resilience, coupled with a collective memory of overcoming hardship, would provide a powerful psychological advantage, fostering hope and determination when others might despair.

The community aspect of capoeira, the roda where individuals come together to play, learn, and support one another, would be particularly vital. In a revolutionary climate, the bonds of trust and solidarity are paramount. A capoeirista would naturally gravitate towards forming or joining a supportive group, drawing on the collective strength and diverse skills of their peers. This sense of belonging and mutual aid would not only offer physical protection but also emotional and spiritual sustenance, preventing isolation and fostering a sense of shared purpose.

Moreover, the musicality and artistry inherent in capoeira – the rhythms of the berimbau, the songs, the call-and-response – could serve as a powerful tool for communication, morale-boosting, and even coded messaging. In times of censorship and limited information, music can transcend barriers and convey messages of resistance, unity, and hope. A capoeirista might use these elements to rally spirits, share information, or even subtly challenge authority.

Ultimately, a capoeirista’s survival in a revolution would depend on their ability to integrate their physical, cultural, and communal strengths. They would not merely be fighters, but also leaders, inspirers, and keepers of hope. Their movements would tell a story of resilience, their songs would echo with the spirit of freedom, and their community would stand as a beacon of solidarity in a fractured world. They would be a living embodiment of the revolutionary spirit itself, adapting, enduring, and ultimately, striving for a future where the dance of freedom can once again flourish.