For me, it is an honor and a profound privilege to be an active participant in this beautiful and complex art form, this rich and dynamic way of life that is fundamentally known as Capoeira Angola. This tradition, rooted deeply in the history of Afro-Brazilian resistance, is a multi-faceted discipline that transcends the simplistic categorization of sport or dance. It is, at its heart, a holistic practice—a compelling synthesis of martial strategy, rhythmic music, oral history, and shared philosophy.
To be able to step into the roda, the circle that defines the sacred space of the practice, is to engage directly with centuries of history, resilience, and creative expression. This moment demands a full presence and complete respect for the ancestors who shaped this art form under duress. The engagement is comprehensive, encompassing the intricate language of the movements, the complex rhythmic structures provided by the berimbau and other instruments, and the profound, often coded, philosophy that defines this practice. This opportunity to participate actively in the roda is not taken lightly; it represents a responsibility I cherish—a continuous commitment to uphold the integrity and spirit of the tradition.
Capoeira Angola is decidedly more than merely a fight, a dance, or an acrobatic display; it is a living, breathing cultural heritage. It functions as a powerful, enduring expression of resistance against oppression, a vibrant celebration of community bonds, and a vessel for ancestral knowledge passed down carefully through generations of mestres and practitioners. Every sway, every low movement, every musical note is imbued with the memory of those who used this art to preserve their freedom and identity.
My involvement in Capoeira Angola is therefore a deep-seated, personal connection to a cultural tradition that not only demands but fundamentally celebrates resilience, artistry, and intellectual acuity. It demands rigorous physical discipline, unwavering respect for the hierarchy and wisdom of the community, and a continuous, humble commitment to learning. The journey is never complete; there is always a new rhythm to master, a deeper historical context to uncover, or a more subtle movement to internalize.
Ultimately, Capoeira Angola serves as an education in itself. It meticulously shapes not only my physical abilities—instilling coordination, strength, and fluidity—but also profoundly informs my understanding of global history, complex rhythmic structures, and the essential nature of human connection and collective creation. It is a path of self-discovery woven into the fabric of a shared, powerful legacy.
Today, January 15th, 2026, marks the birthday of a true global icon in the world of martial arts and culture: João Oliveira dos Santos, universally revered and affectionately known as Mestre João Grande.
Born on January 15, 1933, Mestre João Grande is one of the world’s most distinguished and respected Grão-Mestres (Grand Masters) of Capoeira Angola. As he celebrates his 93rd year, he remains an absolutely critical and profound living link to the fundamental, traditional roots of this beautiful, powerful, and historic Afro-Brazilian art form.
Mestre João Grande’s life is a testament to the enduring spirit and rich heritage of Capoeira Angola. His journey began in Bahia, Brazil, the heartland of Capoeira, where he trained under the legendary Mestre Pastinha, often referred to as the “father of modern Capoeira Angola.” Mestre Pastinha instilled in him the deep philosophical, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of the art—elements that Mestre João Grande has tirelessly championed throughout his career.
Unlike the faster, more acrobatic style known as Capoeira Regional, Mestre João Grande preserves the slower, strategic, and ritualistic elegance of Capoeira Angola. His movements, though seemingly subtle, are filled with deceptive power, deep respect for tradition, and a profound connection to the art’s African origins. He is recognized worldwide not just for his skill in the roda (the Capoeira circle), but for his role as a preserver and global disseminator of Capoeira Angola’s cultural integrity.
His establishment of the Foundation for Capoeira Angola in New York City in the 1990s marked a pivotal moment in the recognition and appreciation of this traditional art, bringing it to a major international stage and ensuring its continuity for generations of non-Brazilian practitioners eager to learn its rich history and intricate movements.
Through his dedicated teaching, captivating performances, and humble demeanor, Mestre João Grande has touched thousands of lives, fostering an inclusive community that transcends cultural barriers, promoting not just a martial art, but a profound philosophy of life rooted in community, respect, cultural pride, and the spirit of collaboration that defines capoeira. His efforts have inspired numerous students to embrace this vibrant form of expression, creating a legacy that celebrates both the traditions of Brazil and the diverse tapestry of cultures represented in the capoeira community worldwide.
May Mestre João Grande have a very Happy Birthday! We celebrate his enduring legacy and his invaluable contribution to global culture!
When first considering the art forms of Capoeira and Vogue, it is understandable that one might struggle to find common ground. On the surface, they appear to exist in completely different cultural, historical, and geographical spheres. Capoeira, the Afro-Brazilian martial art that blends fighting, acrobatics, music, and dance, evokes images of sun-drenched rodas and centuries of resistance. Vogue, the highly stylized, modern house dance originating from the Harlem ballroom scene, suggests the vibrant, assertive self-expression of marginalized communities in urban America.
I must admit, my initial reaction was one of skepticism; I simply couldn’t quite see how a historical, ritualized martial art and a contemporary, high-fashion dance form could have anything meaningful in common.
However, the deeper I delved into the philosophy, movement vocabulary, and cultural significance of both practices, a powerful and undeniable connection began to emerge—a kinship rooted in resilience, improvisation, theatricality, and a profound commitment to self-assertion. This exploration has been a journey of discovery, forcing me to challenge preconceived notions about movement and cultural dialogue.
I am more than happy to be proven wrong in my initial assessment. The intersections of Capoeira and Vogue offer a compelling case study in how seemingly disparate forms of embodied expression can share a common DNA of survival and spectacular creativity. The following article details the unexpected and beautiful resonances between these two dynamic, powerful, and deeply significant cultural practices. Enjoy the exploration of this fascinating dialogue.eped in a rich and sometimes painful history, yet they share a surprising and profound number of parallels. Both are sophisticated languages of the body, particularly in their emphasis on complex movement, dramatic self-expression, the channeling of competitive energy, and the creation of a defined, protected community space for performance. Exploring the connection between these two forms offers a fascinating and critical lens through which to examine global artistic currents, the power of marginalized communities to create and preserve culture, and the universal human desire for radical self-definition.
Capoeira: A Dance-Fight of Resistance, Flow, and Cunning
Capoeira originated in Brazil, ingeniously developed by enslaved Africans primarily from West and Central Africa. To evade detection and the severe punishment of their oppressors, they creatively disguised a sophisticated and deadly martial art as an innocent-looking, rhythmic dance. This duality—the art of masking aggression with grace—is the very soul of Capoeira. It is characterized by fluid, acrobatic movements, high-velocity kicks, powerful sweeps, and the continuous, swaying motion known as the ginga.
The practice is inseparable from its musical foundation. Every jogo (game) is always accompanied by the potent, driving rhythm from the berimbau (a single-string percussion instrument that dictates the pace and intensity), the atabaque (a hand drum), and traditional songs, which often tell stories of history, struggle, and resistance.
Key Characteristics and Cultural Function:
Ginga (The Flow and Deception): The foundational, rhythmic, swaying movement. The ginga is not merely a warm-up; it serves as both a posture of perpetual readiness and a mesmerizing rhythmic dance. It embodies the constant state of motion, misdirection, and deception crucial to the art, protecting the player while creating openings for attack. It is the heart of Capoeira’s flow state.
The Roda (The Sacred Circle): The circle formed by participants where capoeiristas “play.” The roda is a multi-functional space: a performance stage, a dynamic battleground, a communal gathering, and a ceremonial arena. It is rigorously governed by rituals, respect for the music, and deference to the Mestre (Master) or senior players, ensuring the integrity and lineage of the art form are maintained.
Acrobatics and Expressiveness: While fundamentally a fighting technique, Capoeira is intensely aesthetic and theatrical. It incorporates impressive, often gravity-defying acrobatics (aú – cartwheel, macaco – monkey jump) and a theatrical element where players communicate, challenge, and spar with each other non-verbally, often with a sense of playful cunning or malícia.
Vogue: Striking a Pose, Finding the Spotlight, and Self-Definition
Vogue, or Voguing, emerged as a brilliant cultural explosion from the African American and Latino LGBTQ+ Ballroom scene in Harlem, New York, starting in the 1960s and dramatically evolving through the 80s. Born out of necessity, it was an art form and a competitive culture centered on self-definition, fierce competition, and the radical celebration of marginalized identities that were aggressively rejected by mainstream American society. It evolved into a highly stylized, modern house dance characterized by striking angular and linear poses that mimic the dramatic artistry of fashion models in Vogue magazine, interwoven with complex hand movements, dramatic dips, spins, and drops.
Essential Elements and Historical Context:
Posing and Hand Performance: The core element involves sharp, angular, and often gravity-defying poses (the “snap”), connected by intricate, graceful, and articulate hand movements (“Hand Performance”) that can tell a complex, non-verbal story or convey an attitude. The three major styles—”Old Way,” “New Way,” and “Vogue Femme”—each emphasize different aspects of line, precision, and femininity.
Walks and Battles (The Ballroom Culture): Participants “walk” in hyper-competitive events known as Balls. These categories are judged not just on technical execution and complexity, but also on costume, attitude, and the elusive concept of “realness” (the ability to convincingly portray a particular identity, especially one denied to them). The “battle” structure is the central, electric engine of the Ballroom scene’s energy and innovation.
Attitude and Radical Self-Affirmation: Vogue is a potent tool for confidence, catharsis, and radical self-expression. In the Ballroom, performers can temporarily become the aspirational, powerful, and aspirational figures often denied to them in the external world. It is an art of claiming space, demanding respect, and affirming existence.
—–The Overlapping Aesthetics: Flow, Drama, and the Circle of Life
The conceptual and physical overlap between Capoeira and Vogue, despite their geographic and historical distance, is strikingly cohesive. Both are manifestations of genius created under duress.
The Element of Flow and Deception (The Ginga/The Illusion):
Capoeira: The ginga is a rhythmic, constant flow designed specifically to confuse an opponent, masking a sudden, powerful offensive move as a mere step or sway. The goal is to move so fluidly that the attack is obscured until the last possible moment.
Vogue: Similarly, Vogue, particularly “New Way” with its intricate locks, “clicks,” and illusions, utilizes a constant, controlled flow of transition to create mesmerizing visual effects that fool the eye. Both practices prioritize continuous, deceptive motion over static, exposed form, leveraging the element of surprise.
Performance, Theatricality, and Emotional Intensity:
Both forms are inherently dramatic, theatrical, and performative. Capoeira is a ritualized “game” played to the pulsing sound of music, where flair, humor, malícia (cunning), and misdirection are valued as highly as power.
Vogue is performance perfected—a dramatic art form built on fierce attitude, the communication of confidence, and the ability to command and hold the entire room’s attention. Both create an atmosphere of intense, almost electric energy and non-verbal dialogue between participants and the audience.
The Community Circle (The Roda/The Ball):
The Roda in Capoeira and the Ball in Vogue serve as sacred, delimited, and intensely focused spaces where the art is performed, judged, and celebrated by a close-knit, self-selected community.
These circles are more than just venues; they are safe havens that allow for maximum, uninhibited self-expression and cultural perpetuation. Functioning as cultural centers of resistance, they offer a powerful counter-narrative and protection against external societal pressures, judgment, and historical marginalization.
Improvisation, Dialogue, and Call-and-Response:
A capoeira game is a continuous, improvised, and highly responsive dialogue between two players. Each player’s move is a comment on, a challenge to, or a deflection of their opponent’s previous action.
Vogue battles also rely heavily on improvisation, with performers dynamically responding to the driving music, the commentator (MC), and directly challenging their opponent’s moves. The entire process creates a kinetic, competitive conversation that pushes the boundaries of innovation in real-time.
By recognizing the shared vocabulary of fluid movement, dramatic expression, communal ritual, and the defiant spirit ingrained in their structure, a comparative study of Capoeira and Vogue reveals a universal human necessity: the desire for creative freedom, self-definition, the preservation of culture, and the power of resistance articulated through the spectacular art of the body.
Now, I would like to introduce you to someone who embodies a profound dialogue between two powerful forms of movement and cultural resistance. Her name is Puma Camillê.
Puma Camillê is a prominent Brazilian multidisciplinary artist, capoeirista, and performer who has pioneered a captivating hybrid performance style that has garnered attention both nationally and internationally. Her work is a fluid and powerful convergence of the traditional Afro-Brazilian martial art of capoeira, known for its intricate movements and rhythmic footwork, with the fierce, expressive dance style of voguing, which celebrates individuality and self-expression. This unique synthesis of movement forms is not merely an artistic experiment but a profound statement on cultural continuity, self-expression, and resilience, as it bridges the gap between historical traditions and contemporary manifestations of identity. Through her performances, Puma invites audiences to reflect on the rich tapestries of their heritage while simultaneously challenging societal norms, making her artistry a vital force in the ongoing dialogue about culture, race, and empowerment in the modern world.
About Puma Camillê: A Profile in Art and Activism
Identity and Roots: Born in São Paulo, Puma Camillê is a black trans woman and a leading figure in the Brazilian ballroom community. Her personal journey and identity are inseparable from her artistic practice, grounding her work in the lived experience of marginalized communities.
The Hybrid Artistry of Resistance: Puma’s artistic signature is the seamless blending of capoeira and voguing. She identified deep parallels between these two seemingly disparate movement traditions, recognizing a shared philosophical foundation built on resistance and rebellion. Capoeira, born from the enslaved African people in Brazil, served as a disguised form of martial arts and cultural preservation. Voguing, originating in the LGBTQIA+ ballroom scene of 1980s Harlem, emerged as a celebration of queer identities, a defiant, creative response to a hostile social landscape. For Puma, both art forms are born from a foundational search for freedom and a refusal to be suppressed.
Artivism and Community Building: Beyond the stage, Puma Camillê uses her art as a form of “artivism”—a conscious integration of artistic practice with social and political activism. This commitment is exemplified by her founding of the collective Capoeira Para Todes (Capoeira For Everyone). This initiative actively promotes and ensures a visible, affirmed presence for queer and transfeminine individuals within these historically significant art forms, challenging heteronormative and patriarchal structures.
Global Impact and Pedagogy: Puma Camillê is an internationally recognized figure, traveling extensively to host workshops and deliver breathtaking performances. Her pedagogy focuses on much more than technique; it is centered on promoting body diversity, fostering ancestral connection, and empowering participants through the transformative experience of movement. She connects the spiritual lineage of capoeira’s roda (the circle in which capoeira is played) with the community and defiance of the ballroom kiki (social gathering/mini-ball).
Critical Recognition: Her singular practice has garnered significant attention, including being the subject of the short film PUMA by director JDiscovering (J. Molinari). This evocative film casts a dreamlike, intimate lens on the vibrant creative landscape that birthed her unique fusion style, following the seamless synergy between the two performance styles as they elegantly intertwine and are interpreted as one cohesive whole. By delving into the intricacies of her artistic process, the film showcases not only the transformative nature of her performances but also the emotional depth and authenticity that captivates audiences. It provides a rare glimpse into her inspirations, the challenges she has faced, and her unwavering commitment to pushing artistic boundaries, making her work not just a performance but a profound exploration of identity and expression that resonates on multiple levels.
PUMA explores the spiritual connection and sense of identity that Puma finds through these distinct yet connected forms of movement—both created by, and for, marginalized communities. The film successfully documents her singular practice through the connectedness it brings, highlighting the influential forces behind her pursuit of unexplored ground and establishing her art form as one for which the personal is the driving, revolutionary principle. Her work consistently finds fluidity and new meaning in experimental movements that honor tradition while blazing a trail for future generations. By intertwining personal narratives with collective histories, she crafts a tapestry of experiences that resonate deeply within the heart of her audience, inviting them to engage with the transformative power of dance as a means of expression. The vibrant choreography not only serves as a reflection of her own journey but also embodies the struggles and triumphs of the communities she represents, making each performance a powerful statement about resilience and hope. Through this lens, Puma not only challenges the conventional boundaries of art but also paves the way for dialogue about cultural identity and the importance of preserving heritage in an ever-evolving world.
Year-End Reflection: A Look Back at the Developments, Highlights, and Lowlifes
This is it. Today, the professor dedicate his morning briefing to an expansive discussion on the year that was—the tumultuous, transformative, and occasionally transcendent twelve months that now lie in our collective rearview mirror. The professor will be meticulously dissecting the key developments that reshaped our world, celebrating the highlights that provided moments of inspiration and progress, and, yes, calling out the “lowlifes” whose actions defined the negative context of the year. This annual tradition is more than just a summary; it’s a critical examination of where we’ve been, setting the stage for where we must go.
A Major Milestone: 1000 Morning Briefings
Before we dive into the year’s analysis, we must take a significant moment for reflection. With today’s broadcast, we officially post our 1000th Morning Briefing. A thousand mornings—a thousand opportunities to deliver the truth, context, and critical perspective you deserve. It’s a heavy mantle, and they are profoundly grateful for the community we’ve built together. This achievement underscores our unwavering commitment to being a primary source for the analysis that the mainstream media often refuses to provide.
Supporting The Black Media Movement
Our ability to produce this consistent, independent content—now a thousand episodes strong—relies entirely on the support of this community. We are #WeAreTheBlackMedia, and your contributions are what keep this essential platform running. If our work has informed, challenged, or empowered you over the past year, we encourage you to support our efforts through the following channels:
You can also find and follow our movement on X (formerly Twitter) at @profblacktruth.—–In-Depth Analysis: The Year That Defined UsDevelopments:The Shifting Sands of Power
The past year was characterized by several major structural developments that will have lasting impacts. We saw unprecedented economic volatility, with global markets reacting violently to geopolitical shifts and domestic policy decisions. A significant development was the ongoing, fundamental re-evaluation of digital privacy and data ownership, spurred by major legislative battles and technological breakthroughs (and breakdowns). Politically, the most defining development was the continued splintering of traditional alliances and the rise of new, grassroots movements demanding structural change and accountability. We’ll explore how these movements have fundamentally altered the landscape of public discourse and political viability, particularly within the Black community
(#B1).Highlights:Moments of Progress and Resilience
Amidst the chaos, there were genuine highlights that deserve recognition. We saw crucial legislative victories at the local level that directly addressed systemic injustices. The year was marked by exceptional achievements in the arts, sciences, and entrepreneurship by individuals from the diaspora, demonstrating incredible resilience and innovation. These highlights serve as powerful counter-narratives to the pervasive negativity, proving that progress, though hard-won, is always within reach. We will detail the most impactful successes that offer a blueprint for future collective action.
Lowlifes:Accountability for the Underminers
No year-end summary would be complete without a frank discussion of the individuals and institutions we define as “lowlifes”—those who actively worked to undermine progress, sow discord, and prioritize self-interest over the well-being of the community. This category includes public figures, corporate entities, and political actors whose actions caused demonstrable harm. We will name names and detail the specific actions—from unethical corporate practices and exploitative policies to overt acts of intellectual dishonesty—that defined the nadir of the year. Accountability is not an act of vengeance; it is a prerequisite for change.
Join us as we take this critical, comprehensive, and unfiltered look at the last twelve months, preparing ourselves with the knowledge and context needed to face the year ahead.
The political and diplomatic career of Dr. Khanyisile Thabalala, a prominent South African member of parliament, took an unexpected and dramatic turn following a seemingly innocuous visit to a museum in Germany. The core of the controversy stems from a single, pointed question she posed during her tour, an inquiry that quickly escalated into a diplomatic incident resulting in a lifetime ban from the country.
The incident unfolded during an official parliamentary delegation visit to Germany. While touring a significant cultural institution—reported to be a major historical or ethnographic museum—Dr. Thabalala paused before a specific exhibit. The exact nature of the exhibit remains a point of public conjecture, though it is widely believed to have displayed artifacts or information related to Germany’s colonial past, particularly its involvement in South West Africa (now Namibia) or other parts of the African continent.
In an act that demonstrated her commitment to questioning historical narratives and challenging uncomfortable truths, the South African MP addressed a museum official or guide with a question that, in the German context, proved highly provocative. Sources close to the delegation suggest her query focused on the provenance of the artifacts, specifically asking about the ethical nature of their acquisition or the display’s acknowledgement of colonial-era violence and exploitation. She reportedly pressed for details on whether the museum had initiated, or was planning to initiate, a repatriation process for any human remains or culturally significant objects taken under duress.
This line of questioning, intended by Dr. Thabalala to open a dialogue on historical accountability and reparative justice—themes central to South Africa’s own post-apartheid discourse—was not received in the spirit she intended. Instead, German authorities viewed the inquiry as an aggressive challenge to national history and a disruption of a state-sponsored cultural exchange.
The repercussions were swift and severe. Within a short period, Dr. Thabalala was officially notified of a decision by German federal authorities. Citing reasons that remain largely obscured by diplomatic language—likely related to “disrupting official proceedings” or “inappropriate conduct”—she was declared persona non grata and issued a permanent ban preventing her from ever re-entering the Federal Republic of Germany.
Dr. Thabalala’s narrative of the event serves as a stark reminder of the often-tense relationship between former colonizing and colonized nations regarding cultural heritage, historical truth, and the politics of memory. Her experience has been widely discussed in South Africa, where it is often framed as an example of Western nations’ reluctance to fully confront and apologize for the brutalities of their colonial empires. The incident has cemented Dr. Thabalala’s reputation as a fearless advocate for decolonization, even as it cost her access to a major European nation.
The WARRIOR CLASS podcast is your essential, unique resource for mastering self-protection and self-defense. Designed to equip every listener—regardless of background, experience level, or physical ability—with the vital skills and profound knowledge necessary for personal safety and empowerment, we go beyond simple techniques.
We believe that true self-defense begins with a “Warrior Mindset,” focusing on situational awareness, threat recognition, de-escalation tactics, and the legal and ethical considerations of using force. Our episodes feature in-depth interviews with world-class experts: tactical trainers, martial arts masters, security professionals, and legal analysts.
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This week…
This episode: Beyond the Veil of Visibility: Examining the Depth of Black Imagery in Media
It is an undeniable truth that Black actors today enjoy a greater quantitative presence in films and television shows than in decades past. However, this sheer increase in visibility should not be mistaken for meaningful or authentic representation. The true measure of progress lies not in the volume of appearances, but in the quality and complexity of the roles being offered.
When the characters written for Black talent are disproportionately confined to narrow, often harmful archetypes—such as criminals, servants, comedic relief, sidekicks, the emotionally detached “magical negro,” or characters whose narratives are solely defined by trauma—then representation has not genuinely progressed. It has merely diversified in the most superficial of ways, creating a false sense of inclusion.
These limiting roles frequently serve to reinforce damaging, long-standing cultural narratives, regardless of the exceptional skill and artistry of the actors embodying them. This perpetuation of tropes, even in contemporary media, normalizes a restricted and distorted view of Black humanity.
The problem extends beyond the screen and into the realm of printed media, including books, magazines, and comic books. While some Black tropes may have had historical or contextual roots, their continuous and uncritical deployment becomes fundamentally harmful. They operate by flattening the experiences of millions of people into one or two simplistic, overused personality types. This practice effectively erases the vast cultural, regional, class, and personal diversity that exists within the global Black community.
Ultimately, mere visibility is not enough. Representation that lacks authenticity, depth, and complexity is, in effect, a form of misrepresentation. It fails to honor the rich tapestry of Black life and instead promotes an easily digestible, often prejudiced caricature.
In this essential episode of Warrior Class, the Instructors will lead a rigorous and timely exploration and discussion of Black imagery, examining its evolution, impact, and authenticity across various media, including books, television, and film.
The Valentões (bully/tough-guys) represent a crucial and often controversial aspect of Capoeira’s early history, particularly in the urban centers of 19th and early 20th century Brazil, such as Rio de Janeiro and Salvador.
Context and Role:
Originally, the term valentão referred to a specific and notorious type of individual in Brazilian society, often directly associated with the practice of Capoeira. These were not merely skilled martial artists, but figures known for their exceptional fighting prowess, striking fearlessness, and, crucially, their readiness to engage in public disorder or violent conflict. They were, in essence, the quintessential street fighters of their time.
The valentão‘s reputation was entirely predicated on their combat ability. Their deep proficiency in Capoeira was not just a hobby or a sport; it was the primary tool that established and maintained their local power, dominance, and a fearsome reputation within their community or neighborhood. This mastery of Capoeira allowed them to enforce their own will, settle disputes—often violently—and command respect, or more accurately, fear, from the surrounding population. They operated on the fringes of society’s established laws, with the agility, deception, and striking power of Capoeira making them incredibly formidable and difficult for authorities to manage.
The Valentões of Capoeira: Criminality and Combat in 19th Century Brazil
The Capoeira valentões (meaning “bullies” or “tough guys”) were central, yet controversial, figures in the urban landscape of post-abolition Brazil, particularly in major cities like Rio de Janeiro and Salvador during the late 19th century. Their existence fundamentally shaped the perception and subsequent criminalization of Capoeira.
Characteristics and Activities of the Valentões
The valentões were not benign practitioners of a cultural dance; they were highly skilled, feared, and often ruthless street fighters. Their use of Capoeira transcended mere sport or performance, placing it squarely in the domain of clandestine, effective urban combat:
Capoeira as a Weapon: For these fighters, the art was purely a combative system. They mastered the rapid, deceptive movements of Capoeira to gain the upper hand in street confrontations. Their arsenal included low, sweeping attacks like the rasteira (a leg sweep) and powerful headbutts (cabeçadas), which were devastating at close range. Crucially, they integrated weapons into their practice, often concealing small, sharp blades—knives or straight razors—which could be hidden in clothing or, famously, wedged between the toes and used during a low kick, adding a lethal dimension to the fight. This integration of blades and unarmed combat made them exceptionally dangerous adversaries.
Affiliation with Gangs (Malandragem): The power of the valentões was amplified by their organization into territorial street gangs, known as maltas. This gang structure, deeply interwoven with the culture of malandragem (a term encompassing cunning, street smarts, and often a disregard for the law), provided them with community, protection, and a source of income. Infamous examples in Rio de Janeiro included the rival Guaiamús (Crabs) and Nagôs (a term referring to Yoruba descendants), who fiercely competed for control over specific neighborhoods and illicit activities. Beyond simple street brawls and running protection rackets, these maltas became politically significant, often acting as enforcers or mercenaries for hire by political factions during the turbulent election periods of the First Brazilian Republic. Their ability to mobilize violence made them a critical, if unofficial, tool of political control.
Social Status and Marginalization: The valentões predominantly emerged from the poorer, marginalized classes, especially the newly freed Afro-Brazilian population who faced systemic racism and severe lack of economic opportunity after the abolition of slavery in 1888. In a society that offered them little official recognition or mobility, becoming a valentão offered a perverse form of social status—a reputation of fear and respect within their communities. They were simultaneous figures of awe for their strength and skill, and figures of intense scrutiny and contempt from the governing authorities.
Historical Significance and Lasting Impact
The activities of the valentões were not merely a footnote in Capoeira’s history; they were the direct cause of the art’s official suppression and near destruction:
Criminalization of Capoeira (1890 Penal Code): The state’s inability to control the powerful and disruptive maltas led to a drastic legislative response. The actions and reputation of the valentões were the primary justification for the inclusion of a specific ban on Capoeira in the new Brazilian Penal Code of 1890. The authorities consciously moved to de-legitimize the practice, viewing it not as a unique cultural expression but as a dangerous technique intrinsically linked to organized crime and political destabilization. The law stipulated severe punishments for anyone caught practicing Capoeira, including prolonged jail time, forced labor, and even internal exile, effectively treating Capoeira practice as an act of sedition or felony.
Evolution and Transformation of the Art: The period defined by the valentões serves as a stark reminder of Capoeira’s raw, survival-based combat roots. This dangerous legacy necessitated a profound transformation in the 20th century to ensure the art’s survival. Figures like Mestre Bimba (Manuel dos Reis Machado) in Salvador were instrumental in this shift. Bimba consciously sought to legitimize and institutionalize Capoeira, stripping away its toxic association with criminality and urban violence. He did this by creating structured academies, introducing formal rules, emphasizing its educational and physical fitness aspects, and rebranding it as a respected martial art and sport, thereby steering it away from its fearsome valentão past and securing its future as a global cultural phenomenon.
The Power of the Patuá/Amulets: Spiritual Armor of the Valentão
Within the world of Capoeira, particularly among the historical figures known as valentões (tough guys or bullies) and early practitioners in the 19th and early 20th centuries, the belief in supernatural protection was a deeply ingrained and vital cultural element. This spiritual belief system, which blended African, Indigenous, and European folk Catholicism, was essential for surviving a harsh, unforgiving existence.
The patuá was the physical manifestation of this spiritual armor. It was not merely a decorative charm but a powerful, consecrated amulet, typically a small, tightly sewn cloth bag. The power resided in its contents: a potent collection of sacred and symbolic items—such as dried herbs known for their protective or healing properties, pieces of animal bone, prayers written on scraps of paper, salt (a powerful purifying agent), coins, or sometimes even small stones. Crucially, these materials were consecrated and blessed by a spiritual specialist, such as a rezadeira (a prayer woman, skilled in folk remedies and blessings) or an African-Brazilian religious figure, often from the Candomblé or Umbanda traditions. This ritualistic blessing infused the object with axé—the living force, energy, and power that allows things to happen—rendering it genuinely potent.The Patuá‘s Essential Functions
For the valentão, who often lived a life of extreme precariousness, conflict, and frequent confrontations in the crowded, dangerous streets of cities like Rio de Janeiro and Salvador, the patuá served multiple critical and interconnected functions:
Psychological Invulnerability (Confidence): Above all, the patuá provided an indispensable sense of invulnerability and psychological assurance. Knowing they carried an object blessed with spiritual power allowed the valentão to step into a fight with supreme confidence, an emotional state that was often half the battle in the highly ritualized confrontations of Capoeira. This belief alone could intimidate an opponent.
Spiritual Shield (Defense): It was believed to offer a spiritual shield against physical harm. In a time when disputes were often settled with razor blades (navalhas), straight-edge razors, knives, or the powerful, deceptive kicks of rival Capoeiristas, the patuá was thought to deflect blows, cause weapons to misfire, or prevent the blade from penetrating the skin. A common belief was that a true patuá made the wearer “fechado” (closed or sealed) against all harm.
Offensive Weapon (Offense): More than just defense, some patuás were thought to possess offensive capabilities. These charms were believed to subtly—or dramatically—affect the opponent’s spiritual and physical state. They could weaken an opponent’s spirit, confuse their movements, cause them to lose their footing or rhythm (malandragem), or even cause their own protective charms to fail. The true Capoeirista fought not just with their body, but with their feitiço (sorcery or charm).
The power attributed to these amulets speaks volumes about the synthesis of [This sentence fragment connects directly to the original file content and is where the elaboration concludes, transitioning back to the original text’s final point.]cultures—Indigenous, African, and European—that shaped early Capoeira. They represent the influence of Candomblé, Umbanda, and other Afro-Brazilian spiritual practices, where objects are imbued with axé (life force or spiritual power). The presence and power of a patuá could be as much a factor in a fight’s outcome as the physical skill of the Capoeirista, making the spiritual dimension an inseparable part of the fight itself. To be defeated, therefore, was not just a failure of technique, but often an indication that one’s own spiritual protection had been momentarily—or permanently—overcome.
The Spiritual Powers of the Valentões
The term valentões (roughly translating to “tough guys” or “bully-type fighters”) in the context of early Capoeira carries a depth far beyond mere physical prowess. These figures, prominent in the streets and communities of 19th and early 20th century Brazil, particularly Rio de Janeiro and Salvador, were not simply street fighters. They were often viewed—and sometimes feared—as possessing a potent connection to the spiritual world, lending their fighting ability an almost supernatural dimension.
This spiritual power was rooted in the Afro-Brazilian religious traditions, such as Candomblé and Umbanda. A valentão was often believed to be under the direct protection, or even possession, of powerful Orixás (deities) or Exus (powerful, often trickster, spirits). It was thought that their extraordinary resilience, speed, and ability to evade police or rivals stemmed not just from training, but from this spiritual guardianship. Before a conflict or a demonstration, many valentões would perform rituals, offer sacrifices, or consult a spiritual guide to ensure the favor of these entities.
The power was not just protective; it was also believed to be offensive. Stories abound of valentões who could render opponents immobile with a glance, disappear from the sight of the police, or shrug off severe wounds—all attributed to their mastery of, or alliance with, the spiritual realm. This belief system added a layer of mystique and fear to their reputation, making them formidable opponents not only in the physical fight but in the psychological battle as well. Their capoeira movements, therefore, were seen as a blend of martial art, dance, and spiritual invocation, making them key—though often marginalized and persecuted
—figures in the preservation and evolution of Capoeira.
In essence, the valentões (literally, “tough guys” or “bully-boys”) were far more than simple street fighters; they were a complex and often intimidating manifestation of the power, danger, and profound subversion inherent in Capoeira. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when Capoeira was frequently a prohibited and clandestine practice, it was a vital tool for survival, self-defense, and assertion for marginalized populations, particularly formerly enslaved people and the urban poor in cities like Rio de Janeiro and Salvador.
The valentões became the feared and respected icons of this era. They used their mastery of Capoeira’s acrobatic and deceptive movements not merely for sport, but as a genuine fighting system to control territory, protect their communities, and often, to engage in criminal activities or act as muscle for political figures and competing gangs. Their existence underscored the profound threat Capoeira posed to the established social order, as it represented an autonomous source of physical power and resistance among the oppressed. This period, characterized by police repression and social stigma, stands in stark contrast to the martial art’s current status as a globally recognized, respected, and often commercialized Afro-Brazilian cultural and martial art form. The valentões, therefore, embody the raw, untamed, and rebellious genesis of Capoeira—a legacy of defiance and street-smart mastery forged in the fires of social injustice.
Capoeira Angola videos online showcase its vibrant culture through music and movement, highlighting its evolution as a form of self-defense and expression that integrates elements of acrobatics, rhythm, and strategy. They demonstrate intricate techniques with astounding agility while exploring the rich history of Capoeira, emphasizing community connections and the art’s ability to unite diverse individuals from various backgrounds and social groups. These videos educate viewers about Capoeira as a living tradition that inspires future generations, illustrating its values of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride, while inviting participation in this unique blend of dance and martial arts. Additionally, they often feature interviews with seasoned practitioners who share insights into their personal journeys, revealing how Capoeira has impacted their lives and fostered a sense of belonging. With each performance, these videos not only entertain but also serve as a vital resource for understanding the depth and significance of Capoeira, ultimately appreciating this dynamic art form as a means of cultural expression and unity.
Today, I recount a very special day for me.
A Day of Capoeira, Community, and Giving Back in MacArthur Park
This is the story of a memorable day, captured in two special videos, marking my first public Capoeira game. While I might be my own harshest critic, and I can’t claim instant mastery, the experience itself was profound. We gathered that day alongside Solsinmotion, who, in collaboration with Revolutionary Autonomous Communities (RAC), had generously volunteered to provide fresh, organic food to the MacArthur Park community, all while showcasing the vibrant art of Capoeira.
From noon until a little after 2 PM, our Capoeira demonstration unfolded. The rhythmic movements, the music, and the energy captivated the community. It was a powerful display of culture, athleticism, and the spirit of collaboration.
Following our performance, we lent a hand to RAC, assisting them in organizing and distributing the much-needed food to the grateful residents of MacArthur Park. It was truly inspiring to witness the direct impact of these efforts, as the smiles on the faces of the families we helped added a profound sense of fulfillment to our work. Many of the residents expressed their heartfelt gratitude, sharing stories of their challenges and the importance of community support during difficult times. We also had the opportunity to engage with the local volunteers, who brought their own enthusiasm and dedication to the cause, making the day even more memorable. For a more detailed account of that day’s events, you can find a comprehensive blog post HERE.
Reflecting on that day, one particular lesson from Charles still resonates deeply within me: the fundamental essence, the very glue that binds Capoeira together, is COMMUNITY. This insight has only grown stronger with time. Community is not merely a collection of individuals; it is the vital force that brings people together, fostering shared experiences, mutual support, and collective growth. It’s about building connections, learning from one another, and creating a sense of belonging that enriches us all. The day in MacArthur Park was a powerful testament to this truth, demonstrating how the synergy of Capoeira and community engagement can create a truly meaningful and impactful experience for everyone involved.
How Capoeiristas have historically dealt with State repression and violence has been a complex and multifaceted issue, steeped in rich cultural traditions and resilience. Throughout history, Capoeira emerged as a form of resistance against oppression, allowing practitioners to blend martial arts with dance and music to evade detection by colonial authorities. The strategic use of Capoeira as both a means of self-defense and a way to foster a strong community has enabled practitioners to maintain their identity in the face of harsh societal challenges. This vibrant art form has not only provided a physical outlet for those subjected to violence but also a spiritual sanctuary, reinforcing bonds among practitioners and serving as a source of pride and cultural heritage. Furthermore, the ongoing evolution of Capoeira has seen it adapt to modern forms of resistance, where the principles of agility and creativity are now extended to address contemporary social injustices, proving that its inherent values of unity and strength continue to resonate deeply within communities striving for autonomy and recognition.
Capoeira, a quintessential Afro-Brazilian art form, stands as a profound testament to human resilience and cultural ingenuity in the face of relentless state repression and violence. Its historical trajectory is not merely a narrative of survival but a vibrant illustration of how a community forged a powerful instrument of resistance from the crucible of oppression. Originating in the dark era of colonial Brazil, Capoeira ingeniously blended martial arts, dance, and music, creating a sophisticated language of defiance that allowed its practitioners, the Capoeiristas, to evade detection by the very authorities who sought to suppress them. This strategic fusion transcended mere disguise; it was a deeply embedded cultural practice that enabled the honing of combat skills in plain sight, veiled under the guise of festive celebration and communal gathering.
The intrinsic duality of Capoeira—serving simultaneously as a potent means of self-defense and a powerful instrument for fostering community cohesion—was absolutely critical in preserving the identity and dignity of its practitioners amidst relentless societal challenges. In a world bent on stripping them of their heritage and humanity, Capoeira offered a sacred sanctuary, a dynamic space where physical prowess seamlessly intertwined with spiritual solace. It acted as a powerful social glue, reinforcing the bonds among practitioners and cultivating a robust network of solidarity that was absolutely crucial for their collective survival. Beyond its practical applications in combat and community building, Capoeira blossomed into a profound source of pride, a living embodiment of cultural heritage, and a vibrant tapestry meticulously woven from threads of resistance, resilience, and unwavering hope.
The enduring legacy of Capoeira is further underscored by its remarkable adaptability, a characteristic that has allowed it to transcend its origins and address contemporary social injustices. As societies evolved and new forms of oppression emerged, so too did Capoeira, continuously transforming itself to remain relevant and impactful. The core principles of agility, creativity, and strategic evasion, meticulously honed over centuries in the face of historical oppression, found new and profound relevance in modern forms of activism and social protest. This continuous evolution powerfully demonstrates that Capoeira’s inherent values of unity, strength, and the unwavering pursuit of autonomy resonate deeply within communities striving for recognition, justice, and self-determination, unequivocally proving its timeless power as a transformative force for social change.
As the Brazilian government intensified its repressive measures against Capoeira practitioners, including outright criminalization and the brutal application of state-sponsored violence, Capoeiristas responded with ingenious and highly effective strategies to navigate this increasingly hostile environment. They masterfully transformed public spaces—city squares, street corners, and open fields—into vibrant stages for their resistance. These gatherings, often appearing as spontaneous festivals and lively performances, were, in fact, cleverly orchestrated acts of defiance. Under the vibrant and seemingly innocuous guise of cultural celebration, they subtly challenged state authority and showcased their indomitable spirit, their physical prowess, and their unwavering cultural pride.
This clever camouflage served a crucial purpose, allowing Capoeiristas to demonstrate their extraordinary skills, practice their art, and reinforce their community ties without inviting direct, often violent, confrontation from the authorities. The vibrant energy and communal spirit of these gatherings fostered an incredibly deep sense of solidarity among practitioners, strengthening their resolve and commitment in the face of persecution. By transforming these events into public spectacles, they not only meticulously preserved their cherished art form but also raised crucial awareness about their struggles, their deep cultural roots, and their unwavering resilience. As Capoeira solidified its reputation as a potent symbol of resistance against oppression, it began to attract diverse audiences, transcending its original context to become a vital expression of broader Brazilian identity and a powerful advocate for social justice, echoing the voices of the marginalized and oppressed.
This innovative practice, born out of necessity and brilliant improvisation, served a critical dual purpose. Firstly, it effectively circumvented direct confrontations with oppressive forces, thereby minimizing casualties and maintaining the integrity of their community. Secondly, and perhaps more profoundly, it played a pivotal role in reclaiming cultural heritage and fostering profound solidarity among community members. It ignited a powerful sense of identity and belonging, providing an unyielding bulwark against the forces of dehumanization and cultural eradication. The transformative journey of Capoeira, from a grassroots struggle for survival among enslaved and marginalized populations to its current elevated status as a globally recognized and celebrated cultural symbol, eloquently underscores the extraordinary tenacity, inventive spirit, and enduring courage of those who practice it. This remarkable evolution vividly illustrates how the art form has adapted and thrived over time, seamlessly blending the rhythmic intricacies of music, the expressive and fluid movements of dance, and the disciplined, potent techniques of martial arts to forge a dynamic, compelling, and utterly unique expression of resistance.
Ultimately, this profound transformation of Capoeira reflects not merely a fight against oppression but also a joyous and vibrant celebration of culture, community strength, and the indomitable human spirit. It serves as a powerful and timeless reminder that even in the darkest hours of oppression, the spirit of Capoeira possesses the extraordinary power to inspire resilience, galvanize resistance, and ignite hope. It stands as a shining beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations, encouraging them to embrace their roots, honor their heritage, and continuously innovate for a brighter, more equitable tomorrow. The enduring legacy of Capoeira is, therefore, a living testament to the human spirit’s boundless capacity for creativity, unwavering resilience, and an unshakeable commitment to freedom and cultural preservation against all odds.
Capoeira’s profound transformation transcends a mere struggle against oppression; it blossoms into a jubilant and vibrant celebration of culture, the unwavering strength of community, and the indomitable human spirit. This evolution serves as a powerful and timeless reminder that even amidst the darkest hours of tyranny, the spirit of Capoeira possesses an extraordinary power to inspire resilience, galvanize resistance, and ignite hope.
It stands as a shining beacon of hope and inspiration for all future generations, actively encouraging them to embrace their roots, honor their heritage, and continuously innovate for a brighter, more equitable tomorrow. The enduring legacy of Capoeira is, therefore, a living testament to the human spirit’s boundless capacity for creativity, its unwavering resilience in the face of adversity, and an unshakeable commitment to freedom and cultural preservation against all odds.
This dynamic art form, born from the crucible of slavery, meticulously wove together elements of martial arts, dance, music, and ritual. It provided an clandestine means for the enslaved to practice self-defense, forge strong communal bonds, and preserve their African traditions under the watchful and often brutal eyes of their oppressors. Each movement, each rhythm, and each song within Capoeira became a coded language, a form of silent defiance against the forces that sought to strip away their humanity.
Over centuries, Capoeira adapted and evolved, transcending its origins to become a global phenomenon. It moved from the hidden senzalas and quilombos to the bustling streets of Brazilian cities, and eventually, to dojos and cultural centers across the world. This journey was not without its challenges, facing periods of state repression and outright prohibition, with capoeiristas often being persecuted and criminalized. Yet, through it all, the essence of Capoeira – its spirit of freedom, adaptability, and cultural pride – persisted.
Today, Capoeira is not just a physical discipline; it is a holistic philosophy that fosters self-awareness, discipline, and respect. It teaches its practitioners the importance of community (“comunidade”), the beauty of improvisation (“improvisação”), and the power of individual expression (“expressão individual”). The “roda,” the circle in which Capoeira is played, symbolizes a sacred space where individuals connect, challenge each other, and collectively create a living, breathing testament to their shared heritage.
In essence, Capoeira’s journey from a tool of survival to a celebrated cultural art form encapsulates the very best of human endurance and ingenuity, illustrating a remarkable transformation over centuries. Rooted in the struggles faced by enslaved Africans in Brazil, Capoeira emerged not just as a means of self-defense but as a means of expression, allowing practitioners to convey their emotions and identities through movement and rhythm. It demonstrates that culture is not static; it is a dynamic, living entity that can adapt, resist, and flourish even in the most hostile environments, shaping itself through the experiences and creativity of its practitioners. Its continued growth and global reach stand as an irrefutable testament to the power of cultural resilience and the universal human yearning for freedom and self-determination, drawing diverse individuals into its fold and fostering a sense of community that transcends borders, languages, and backgrounds. As Capoeira evolves, it continues to inspire future generations, serving as a potent reminder of the enduring spirit of those who fought to preserve their heritage and the importance of cultural exchange in a rapidly changing world.
Welcome to another addition to the “ROOTS OF CAPOEIRA” blog series, which explores the importance of Afro-Brazilian culture in Capoeira, highlighting the connection with the heritage of the AFRO-BRAZILIAN PEOPLE who express their creativity and resilience through art forms like dance, music, and storytelling. This rich cultural tapestry weaves together historical narratives and personal experiences, emphasizing how each element of Capoeira serves not only as a means of self-defense but also as a vital expression of identity and heritage. By understanding these cultural roots, I hope that you can appreciate Capoeira as both a self-defense practice and a unifying cultural expression celebrating shared heritage, where every movement and song embodies a story and every encounter reinforces the legacy of Afro-Brazilian culture. In delving into the interplay between tradition and innovation, we invite our audience to recognize Capoeira not only as a martial art but also as a living tradition, continuously evolving while remaining anchored in its historical significance.
In today’s installment…
What you see in the above video, is a festival called, Nego Fugido, which loosley translated means, Runaway Negro.
The nego fugido is an annual ritual performance in Acupe, Brazil, that reenacts the dehumanization of slavery and the struggle for emancipation. It serves as a form of memorial mediation where the Quilombola community reappropriates its history through a counter-narrative of oppression and resistance, linking art, politics, spirituality, and collective memory. The performance powerfully portrays the history of subjugated people and their tireless struggle for freedom from slavery, shedding light on the cultural richness and resilience often overshadowed by narratives of oppression. Participants create living images (tableaux vivants) that embody the memory of oppression and the resistance of those who were enslaved, communicating not just a story, but an experience etched in the hearts and minds of generations. In contrast to dominant historical accounts, Nego Fugido creates a sovereign counter-narrative from the perspective of those whose history has been suppressed or erased, serving as a radical assertion of identity and dignity. This ritual stands as a testament that the past is not a distant memory but a living influence on the present.
The ritual is a way for the Quilombola community to reclaim its past, reinterpreting its colonial heritage in the context of the present, imbuing contemporary culture with historical significance that resonates with today’s struggles for justice. It operates at the intersection of art, politics, spirituality, and the transmission of knowledge, fostering solidarity and common purpose among participants and the audience. The collective act prompts questions about whose voices shape historical memory and who determines the narratives that form a nation, inviting reflection on the nature of truth, memory, and the continual journey towards liberation. Through this performance, the Quilombola community not only honors the ancestors but also challenges prevailing injustices, forging a path towards a more inclusive future grounded in recognition and respect for all histories.
Jogo Corpo Fechado 