The “ROOTS OF CAPOEIRA” blog series 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. It discusses the role of Capoeira elements, including the berimbau’s rhythm and traditional songs, in honoring ancestors and fostering community. By understanding these cultural roots, readers appreciate Capoeira as both a self-defense practice and a unifying cultural expression celebrating shared heritage.
In today’s installment…
The “Puxada de Rede” is a Brazilian folk art with rich and complex origins in the post-slavery period, representing not just the hard work of fishermen, many of them black, but also their resilience and connection to the sea. These fishermen found sustenance in fishing for the “xaréu,” a fish revered for its taste and significance in regional cuisine. The practice involves the intricate art of casting and pulling a large net, which requires not only physical strength but also teamwork and synchronization among the fishermen. This process is often accompanied by traditional songs and rhythms that reflect the hardships of life, paying homage to the struggles and triumphs of the community.
Today, the “Puxada de Rede” is meticulously preserved in vibrant performances, which are frequently associated with capoeira, creating a unique blend of art and cultural heritage that educates audiences about its historical context.
The net pulling emerged as a crucial means of sustenance for newly freed black individuals who, having been deprived of opportunities, showcased their resourcefulness and adaptability in the face of adversity. This practice, deeply rooted in the culture of the northeastern coast, focuses on fishing for the “xaréu,” which sought warm waters to spawn from October to April, making it not only a means of survival but also a seasonal tradition celebrated by the community. Fishermen would cast the net in the early morning or at night, pulling it only the next morning, a task that required the cooperation of many men, each contributing their skills and knowledge passed down through generations. During the pulling, the often sad songs echoing the fishermen’s experiences, combined with the rhythm of the drums and their synchronized feet, created a powerful atmosphere that served to motivate and unify the fishermen.
At the end of the fishing, heartfelt hymns of gratitude were sung, the fish were shared among the participants and with the community, and a joyous celebration began to honor the successful catch, fostering a sense of camaraderie and communal identity. The net pulling gave rise to a popular legend about a fisherman who fell into the sea and did not return, a story that reflects the dangers associated with this vocation. This tale has evolved into a folk theatrical performance that encapsulates the blend of fear, hope, and reverence for the sea. Capoeira, as a dynamic means of preserving the memory and spirit of Afro-Brazilian culture, incorporated the net pulling, representing the fishermen and their songs in performances that infuse beauty and respect into this ancient and laborious activity.
In some traditions, the net pulling is also performed as a treasured ritual in celebration of Iemanjá, the goddess of the sea, further highlighting the deep spiritual and cultural ties that connect the community to their environment and heritage. This captivating event draws together families and friends, who gather by the shoreline, adorned in white garments as a sign of purity and respect. As the sun rises, casting a golden hue upon the waves, participants engage in rhythmic chants and dances, invoking blessings for a bountiful catch and protection for their loved ones. The act of pulling the nets is not merely a practical endeavor; it symbolizes the collective strength and unity of the community, reinforcing their bond with the ocean and each other. In this way, the ritual not only honors Iemanjá but also serves as a vital reminder of the shared values and traditions that continue to shape their identity across generations.
Capoeira Angola videos showcase the vibrant culture and community aspects of this martial art, featuring intricate movements and traditional music that create a captivating atmosphere. These recordings reveal various styles and insights from masters, highlighting the historical contexts of struggle and celebration inherent in this Brazilian tradition. The dedication of practitioners emphasizes the art’s beauty and resilience, as performances convey perseverance and cultural pride, while also demonstrating the importance of camaraderie and respect that fosters connections among diverse individuals.
In Today’s installment, we have two views of the same game. this game is between Contramestre Boneco, and Professor Neve Angola. Here, we have a view from the outside of the roda.
And here is a inside look.
In both views, you can see the beauty of Capoeira Angola, a rich and dynamic art form that blends elements of dance, martial arts, and music into a captivating performance. The intricate movements of the practitioners, coupled with the rhythmic beats of traditional instruments, create a mesmerizing spectacle that draws in spectators and participants alike.
The vibrant cultural expression of the Afro-Brazilian community encapsulates their history and resilience, offering a profound experience that connects the past and present. This dynamic representation of identity is not merely an art form; it is a rich tapestry woven from the threads of ancestral traditions, social struggles, and the spirit of joy that permeates their celebrations. Through movement, song, and visual elements, it conveys stories of struggle and triumph, promoting appreciation and understanding of their contributions to Brazil’s cultural landscape, as it spreads and enriches people all over the world.
Festivals infused with rhythm and dance serve as a reminder of their enduring legacy and bring together diverse communities, fostering unity and respect. Every note played and every step danced invites individuals to engage with the historic narratives that shape the Afro-Brazilian experience, ensuring that their voices continue to resonate through time.
before I go further, I think I should describe what a roda is in the world of capoeira.
The Roda de capoeira serves as a theatrical space that showcases the art of Capoeira and the vibrant communities involved, where participants learn skills and life lessons that extend beyond the physical practice itself. In this dynamic setting, individuals not only refine their martial techniques but also engage in the rich cultural traditions and musical expressions that accompany Capoeira. Through the rhythmic beats of the berimbau and the spirited singing of the participants, the Roda transforms into a living embodiment of history, solidarity, and creativity, inviting both players and spectators to immerse themselves in a shared experience that honors ancestral legacies. Each movement in the Roda is a dialogue, a blend of acrobatics, dance, and storytelling that fosters connections among diverse groups, encouraging a sense of belonging and mutual respect across generations. As practitioners embrace the challenges of each encounter, they cultivate resilience, adaptability, and the understanding that Capoeira is not merely a sport but a lifelong journey of cultural exploration and personal growth.
The energy of the Roda varies significantly by environment, with formal energy in academies promoting disciplined learning and structured progress…
While street Rodas, or “Roda de rua,” offer a different, more vibrant energy that pulsates through the air, making every moment feel alive with possibility. This is my favorite place to play Capoeira, where there’s more spontaneity and community involvement, as the atmosphere is infused with the sounds of laughter, music, and the rhythmic clapping of the audience. Here, onlookers naturally feel compelled to join in the rhythm, creating an inclusive atmosphere that celebrates cultural heritage and fosters deep connections among participants.
Each session becomes a tapestry of shared experiences, with novice and seasoned practitioners exchanging skills and stories, nurturing a sense of belonging that transcends the act of play and delves into the essence of community life. This rich interaction fosters not only personal growth but also the cultivation of trust and mutual respect among participants, empowering them to learn from one another. The vibrant energy of the street Roda, filled with laughter, rhythm, and movement, not only enhances the practice but also reinforces the bonds of friendship and camaraderie, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and included. It is a collective journey where each participant contributes their unique perspective, enriching the overall experience, and making it a truly unforgettable and transformative moment for everyone involved.
The Festival of Iemanjá is a vibrant and colorful celebration of the West African goddess of the sea, Iemanjá, which takes place not only in Brazil but also in various parts of the world that honor African heritage and spirituality.
This festival is a significant event for followers of the Candomblé and Umbanda religions, which deeply respect Iemanjá as a protector of women, children, and families. From the bustling shores of Bahia to coastal cities across the globe, the festival is marked by lively processions, the offering of flowers and gifts, and an overall atmosphere of reverence and joy.
The biggest celebration of Iemanjá occurs on February 2nd in the Rio Vermelho neighborhood of Salvador, Brazil, where thousands gather to pay homage to the goddess, creating a unique blend of ritual, dance, and music that draws both locals and tourists alike, fostering a sense of community and cultural pride.
This annual gathering not only commemorates Iemanjá but also reinforces the rich traditions and customs that have been passed down through generations, making it a cornerstone of Afro-Brazilian identity. It serves as a vibrant display of culture, with colorful processions, offerings, and rituals that honor the goddess of the sea, further intertwining spirituality with the community’s collective memory. As families come together to share stories, music, and dance, they foster a sense of belonging and pride in their heritage. Additionally, this event attracts participants from diverse backgrounds, cultivating an environment of inclusivity and understanding, thereby expanding awareness of Afro-Brazilian history and its significant contributions to the country’s cultural tapestry.
“There are not more than five musical notes, yet the combinations of these five give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard. There are not more than five primary colours, yet in combination, they produce more hues than can ever been seen. There are not more than five cardinal tastes, yet combinations of them yield more flavours than can ever be tasted.” ― Sun Tzu, The Art of War“
Capoeira Angola is a defensive martial art known for its intricate trap-like defenses designed to catch opponents off guard and provide fluidity in movement. It encompasses 8 basic defenses, each with unique unexpected attacks and counter-attacks based on the opponent’s positioning, which are essential for creating opportunities during a confrontation. Mastery of these movements enables capoeiristas to defend against individuals carrying various weapons, including sticks, clubs, knives, and potentially even firearms with the appropriate skills; by understanding the principles of anatomy, timing, and rhythm, practitioners can enhance their ability to react swiftly and effectively. Furthermore, the art form emphasizes not only physical technique but also the mental aspects of strategy and awareness, allowing capoeiristas to anticipate an opponent’s actions and respond accordingly, making it a holistic approach to self-defense that integrates body and mind.
Today, I’m gonna “type” about one of the most fundamental techniques, one of the “trademarks” if you will, of Capoeira Angola, the RABO – DE – ARRAIA.
Rabo de arraia (stingray’s tail) is a key technique in capoeira involving inverted kicks over the head, reminiscent of a stingray’s strike, characterized by its fluid motion and dynamic execution. This kick is often seen as the most associated with capoeira, serving not only as an offensive maneuver but also as a means of showcasing the practitioner’s agility and finesse. While executing the rabo de arraia, the capoeirista must maintain a deep understanding of balance and timing, which are crucial for delivering the kick effectively.
Moreover, it includes various movements that seamlessly blend into the overall flow of the game, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the performance. It is regarded as one of the most powerful and effective capoeira kicks and stands out as a signature move, alongside the RASTEIRA, which further highlights the versatility of a capoeirista’s arsenal. A capoeirista’s skill level is often judged by how hard and fast they can perform it, as the beauty of this move lies not only in its impact but also in the seamless integration into the rhythm and spontaneity of the game, reflecting the cultural richness of capoeira.
Rabo – De – Arraia is a parent term includes following major techniques:
MEIA LUA DE COMPASSO with its variations, the traditional rabo-de-arraia in capoeira Angola.
The kick is done with the heel, a technique that is not only unique but also adds a distinct flair to the player’s arsenal. It is extensively used in the “low game,” a traditional sport that emphasizes agility and precision.
In the “inside game” of capoeira, players are in close proximity, which requires cunning and strategic thinking to outsmart one another. A lapse in attention can lead to serious consequences, particularly because kicks to the head, like the rabo de arraia, are more effective in this position, often catching opponents off guard and demonstrating the importance of precision and timing.
Certain movements like rabo de arraia (meia lua de compasso and scorpion kick) originated from the African martial art n’golo. These acrobatic maneuvers not only showcase the physical prowess of practitioners but also reflect a deep cultural heritage intertwined with spiritual beliefs. Inverted positions, foundational to these techniques, likely stem from Bantu Ngangas using handstands to emulate ancestors who walked on their hands in the spirit realm, serving as a bridge between the physical world and the spiritual. This practice highlights the significance of body movement as a form of communication and connection to ancestral lineage.
In engolo, spinning kicks performed with hands on the ground are referred to as okuminunina or okusanene komima, illustrating the unique blend of artistry and combat that defines this martial art, where each technique is rich with historical context and meaning, often telling a story of resilience and cultural identity.
This paragraph discusses the “ROOTS OF CAPOEIRA” blog series, highlighting the significance of Afro-Brazilian culture as the foundation of Capoeira. It emphasizes the deep connection between Capoeira and the rich heritage of the Afro-Brazilian people, who express their struggles, creativity, and resilience through various forms of art, including dance, music, and storytelling. Additionally, it notes the importance of these art forms in celebrating identity and preserving history, showcasing the community’s innovation and resilience in the face of adversity. The series delves into various elements of Capoeira, such as the rhythm of the berimbau, the role of the roda, and the significance of traditional songs, all of which contribute to a collective narrative that honors ancestors and fosters a sense of belonging. By understanding these cultural roots, readers gain a deeper appreciation for how Capoeira not only serves as a form of self-defense and physical expression but also as a vital cultural practice that unites individuals in celebration of their shared heritage.
In today’s installment..
Join us on a culinary journey through Afro-Brazilian cuisine, highlighting its unique blend of African, Portuguese, and indigenous influences that have shaped the rich tapestry of Brazil’s food culture.
Discover iconic dishes like Feijoada, a hearty stew that combines black beans and various types of meat, and Moqueca, a flavorful fish stew made with coconut milk and spices that varies regionally in Brazil, showcasing the diversity of local ingredients and culinary techniques. Learn about key ingredients such as dendê oil, which imparts a distinctive flavor that is essential in many traditional recipes, and okra, often used to enhance the texture of many dishes, providing a unique twist to the overall experience.
Celebrate the vital role of women in preserving these traditions, as they pass down invaluable recipes and cooking techniques from generation to generation, ensuring that the heritage remains vibrant and alive, and fostering a deep connection to their roots. Share this video to spread appreciation for Afro-Brazilian cuisine, inviting others to explore and savor the diverse tastes and cultural stories embedded within each dish, while also recognizing the significance of these culinary practices in shaping community bonds and local identities.
Hello, I would like to introduce to you one of my teachers, and inspirations, Jelani Lateef.
Jelani Lateef is a dedicated teaching artist and capoeirista who actively engages in capoeira Angola and storytelling. He has recently lost his home in the Eaton Fire, which he was renovating for an art studio. His teachings emphasize not only the physical practice but also the cultural significance of the art form, exploring its rich history and the stories woven into each movement.
By integrating elements of personal narrative and cultural exchange, he has encouraged myself, as well as others, to appreciate capoeira Angola not just as a martial art but as a living, breathing tradition that connects people across generations.
Your support will help him continue his journey, enabling him to reach more individuals and cultivate a deeper appreciation for this vibrant cultural practice.
Before I go into this post, I want all of you out there to know that the topic of race and racism in brazil is a very loaded and confusing topic. Why? well, watch the vkideo below.
Synopsis of the video: Jessica says she’s black. Her cousin says she’s white. This difference in their self-identification highlights the complex tapestry of racial identity that exists in Brazil, a country notorious for its diverse population and the myriad shades of skin tones within it.
Stephanie Nolen spends time with one family to find out just how complicated race in Brazil can be, delving into the historical context and cultural nuances that shape these identities. Through her exploration, she uncovers stories of resilience and pride, as well as the ongoing challenges that individuals face in a society still grappling with its colonial past and the implications of colorism on personal and communal relationships. By engaging in candid conversations with family members across generations, Nolen reveals how the legacy of slavery continues to influence social dynamics, personal aspirations, and community ties.
Now the video below, heartbreaking as it can be to some of us, hits close to home for me.
In this touching video, a Brazilian social influencer tries to convince her black grandmother that she is beautiful, sharing heartfelt words and personal stories to uplift her spirit. The grandmother, however, remains skeptical and struggles to embrace this affirmation due to the deep-rooted beliefs shaped by all the racist things she’s heard and experienced as a black woman in Brazil throughout her life.
The influencer gently recounts moments of pride and resilience within their family’s history, drawing attention to the stories of her ancestors who overcame adversity and celebrated their unique identities throughout generations. By sharing these cherished memories, she hopes to spark a profound sense of self-love and appreciation in her grandmother’s heart, encouraging her to reflect on the legacy of strength that runs through their bloodline. This narrative emphasizes that beauty comes in many forms, whether it is through cultural practices, shared traditions, or personal triumphs, and is inherently tied to one’s identity and heritage. She passionately believes that recognizing this interconnectedness can foster a deeper understanding of oneself, allowing her grandmother—and others—to embrace their own worth and the rich tapestry of their background.
Now the reason this nits close to home for me is all the “Yo mama’s so black“jokes, and all the reminders that in the not so distant past, and even in our present, blackness equated to ugliness. The darker someone’s skin was, the worse they were treated, often subjected to cruel stereotypes and derogatory comments that permeated everyday life. These so-called jokes were not just harmless humor; they were deeply rooted in historical prejudice and societal norms that devalued the beauty and worth of those with darker complexions. It pains me to reflect on how these narratives have shaped perceptions, reinforcing a damaging hierarchy based on skin tone.
This experience highlights the urgent need for a broader understanding of beauty that celebrates diversity rather than diminishes it, urging society to challenge and dismantle these harmful stereotypes that continue to persist today.
Hi, I guess this is where I talk about my New Year’s resolutions, or at least where this website is concerned.
This blog is dedicated to the arts and culture of Africa and its diaspora, focusing on Capoeira Angola as both a physical art form and a deep cultural expression with a rich history. Within this vibrant realm, there are many issues and genres surrounding it, and I aim to explore every facet in detail. That means delving deep into the intricate dance movements, the powerful self-defense techniques, the soulful music, and the meaningful rituals that bring communities together, creating an environment of unity and shared identity. Each element not only serves a purpose but also tells a story, revealing the importance of oral traditions and the historical context that shapes these practices.
As I examine the evolution of Capoeira Angola, I will highlight its roots in African cultures and how they have intermingled with various influences throughout history. Each aspect reflects the diverse culture and historical significance of this extraordinary practice, showcasing how it allows individuals to connect with their roots and each other across generations, fostering a sense of belonging while celebrating the vibrancy of their heritage. Furthermore, I plan to look into contemporary adaptations and how younger generations are keeping this tradition alive, ensuring that the essence of Capoeira Angola continues to thrive and inspire future artists and cultural advocates around the world.
Right now, let’s start 2025 with Mestre Pastinha, the father of Capoeira Angola, whose legacy continues to inspire and shape the practice of this art form. His teachings not only emphasize the importance of physical prowess but also highlight the cultural roots of Capoeira, encompassing music, dance, and the historical struggles of the Afro-Brazilian community.
By revisiting his philosophy and techniques, we can deepen our understanding of Capoeira as a powerful tool for self-expression and social connection, fostering a sense of unity in our communities as we embrace the new year ahead.
As anyone who has studied Capoeira history knows, capoeira was banned in Btazil after the abolition of slavery in 1888.
But why?
I asked this question on a couple of Capoeira forums to get some different opinions, but I was only able to get 1, because I directed the question to him specifically. So I can only give you 3 pers[ectives.
First was what I got from Google.
Capoeira was banned in Brazil after the abolition of slavery in 1888 because the government feared its use as a means of resistance by newly freed slaves, associating it with criminal activity and potential rebellion, leading to the practice being outlawed and heavily persecuted by authorities; essentially, capoeira was seen as a threat to social order due to its potential for violent use by marginalized populations.
Key points about the ban
Origin as a resistance tool:Slaves developed capoeira as a way to secretly practice self-defense, disguised as dance, to fight back against their enslavers.
Post-slavery concerns: After emancipation, the Brazilian government feared that capoeira would be used by former slaves to incite unrest, leading to its criminalization.
Social stigma: Capoeira became associated with gangs and criminal elements, further contributing to its negative perception.
Mestre Bimba’s role: Later, Mestre Bimba played a key role in legitimizing capoeira by creating a structured teaching method and presenting it as a sport, which eventually led to the lifting of the ban. ;
Second, we have the perspective of Head coach Ras of Atacxgym:
The reason Kipura ( not Capoeira, as that term was created by Raphael Bluteau a racist sexist Catholic priest, as like the good racistfeudalist clergyman he was, he almost wholly mispronounced and almost wholly misunderstood both the word and every facet of practice of Kipura ) is because Kipura at once is:
1. A nigh invincible self defense system that is inexplicably, stridently culturally linguistically racially and blatantly Black Power centered of by and from Alkebulan. Meaning the racistfeudalists would be faced with the specter of a clearly Alkebulan warrior system, practiced by Alkebulans, unending their colonial dreams as well as the corrupted and altered Biblical scriptures ( which were not the original scriptures or interpretations which we see in the Ge’ez Scriptures ) as well as flat out lies of White superiority which propelled the ( recently civilized by Alkebulans ) Euro and Arab nobility and aristocracy false justifications hiding their real reasons ( they want ultimate power, fear we Alkebulans will prevent them from getting ultimate power because of our enormous mineral wealth and mindboggling achievements in every area ahows we can subjugate the world forever if we so chose ) to create and engage in race specific chattel slavery.
2. Kipura is every bit as powerful if not even more powerful as a whole human development system as it is a combat system. Kipura unfettered would produce intellectual and civilization al superiority because it already did so for over 890 years.
3. White elites wanted and still want now to dominate subjugation and control the world, and harness all components of the world to the machine of their own perpetually growing and exclusively their own power without consequences to be even possible by those whom they subjugate.
That means US.
Kipura warriors demolish those possibilities in every way.
Now, here’s my perspective:
The reason why I think Capoeira was banned and made illegal in 1888 was because of its potential to bring all social classes, races, and creeds of people together, uniting them in a shared practice that transcended societal barriers. This unique martial art form not only provided a means of physical expression but also fostered a sense of community and belonging among diverse groups. The rhythmic movements, music, and dance elements of Capoeira created an environment where participants could connect with one another, forging bonds that challenged the existing social hierarchies. As Capoeira gained popularity and recognition, it posed a significant threat to the established colonial system that the elites of Brazil had created, one that relied on division and dominance. The very existence of this cultural expression could inspire a collective identity and resistance among the oppressed, leading the ruling class to see it as a danger that needed to be suppressed for the sake of maintaining their power and control over the population.
Most Martial Arts originate from conflict, and Capoeira emerged from RESISTANCE in 16th century Brazil as a safe haven for enslaved people to gather, train, and share strategies. It represents a form of embodied resistance for the African diaspora, remaining a tool for social empowerment. Capoeira not only involves physical resistance against oppression but also fosters community solidarity and shared leadership. Its history reflects the struggle for freedom and self-expression, highlighting the resilience and creativity of marginalized communities, while its movements and songs celebrate the fight against injustice.
As practitioners engage in the art, they not only refine their skills through powerful kicks and agile dodges but also cultivate a profound sense of identity and belonging. The music that accompanies Capoeira, played on traditional instruments such as the berimbau and atabaque, creates an atmosphere of vibrancy and unity, encouraging participants to chant and sing as they move. This dynamic practice not only preserves the rich cultural heritage of African traditions but also serves as a living testament to the enduring spirit of those who fought against adversity. Furthermore, Capoeira’s emphasis on improvisation and creativity empowers individuals to express themselves freely, promoting personal growth and social cohesion, which further contributes to the ongoing dialogue surrounding equality and justice in contemporary society.
2 examples of this happened last weekend, and this weekend.
On December 14th & 15th, Mestre Themba Mashama gave a lecture and an amazing Capoeira Angola workshop, providing healing space for expansion and growth.
In these days, when so many things are shifting and changing, we find it an immense privilege to have access to living repositories of wisdom, alignment, and guidance—our elders. These are the individuals who have walked the paths before us, who have navigated the complexities of life and emerged with insights that are invaluable. The ones who guide us and teach us from their experience so that our experiences can be better, providing us not only with knowledge but also with the strength to face our own challenges. We can do and be better for the young ones when the old ones have our back, offering support and encouragement that inspires resilience. This bridge of information and light from source and back to the source inside all of us creates an enduring connection, reminding us of our shared humanity and interdependence, as we learn to weave our stories into the rich tapestry of life that encompasses all generations.
And yesterday, we at Capoeiristas for Change had our 4th Annual Essential Item & Toy Drive, an event that has become a staple in our commitment to giving back to the community.
This drive is designed to service not only our local El Sereno area but also the broader LA community, expanding our reach to touch the lives of many who are less fortunate. Additionally, we aim to support the migrants at the US/Mex border, a group that often faces immense challenges and hardships. Today, a dedicated team of our volunteers set out on a heartfelt mission, delivering some of the collected goods directly to the people in need there, ensuring that our efforts have a tangible impact on those who require assistance the most. It is inspiring to witness the generosity and kindness of our supporters, as each toy and essential item collected represents a beacon of hope for families during these trying times.
Well, you have 3 perspectives on why Capoeira was banned. I believe they are not only correct, but they complement each other, creating a comprehensive understanding of this complex issue. Each perspective sheds light on different cultural, social, and political factors that contributed to the prohibition, allowing us to see the multifaceted nature of the situation.
Additionally, these viewpoints underscore the historical context in which Capoeira developed, illustrating how its roots in resistance and community were perceived as threats by those in power. By examining these reasons collectively, we can appreciate not only the resilience of Capoeira but also the enduring spirit of those who practiced it in the face of oppression.
Jogo Corpo Fechado 