Tag: food

Exploring the Legacy of Black Culinary Innovations in America

Many of the most cherished and widespread foods enjoyed in America today owe their very existence to the ingenuity, resilience, and cultural traditions of Black people. Yet, the profound contributions of African Americans to the nation’s culinary landscape have been systematically overlooked, minimized, and often outright erased from popular history. This compelling history documentary sets out to reclaim this narrative by breaking down 10 pivotal food traditions that Black people originated—traditions that America readily adopted, massively profited from, and continues to rarely acknowledge with the credit they deserve.

This is more than a simple list of recipes; it is an excavation of a profound and enduring cultural memory, a culinary history forged in the crucible of injustice. We delve into cooking techniques born out of the brutal conditions of slavery, where absolute resourcefulness was not merely a desirable trait, but a critical matter of survival. This necessity for efficiency and flavor, utilizing every part of humble or discarded ingredients, led directly to groundbreaking culinary innovations. It is here that we trace the origins of techniques like the art of preserving through smoking and the patient, low-and-slow method of cooking tough cuts of meat, practices that not only defined the development of modern barbecue but set a global standard for flavor and texture.

We explore cultural food practices that represent a sustained connection to the African continent—practices that were painstakingly passed down through generations. This includes the sophisticated preparation and seasoning of leafy greens, the masterful cultivation and complex use of rice and legumes in dishes like Hoppin’ John and Gumbo, and the transformation of corn into foundational staples. These traditions miraculously survived the trauma of the Middle Passage, adapting to the unfamiliar ingredients and harsh environments of the new world while maintaining an unmistakable, essential African legacy in every pot.
These traditions did not just add a flavor to America’s table; they fundamentally shaped American cuisine itself. They are the essential DNA of what became universally recognized as “Soul Food,” a category that encompasses the very foundation of comfort, community, and ingenuity in Southern and American kitchens. Furthermore, they continue to drive the modern food culture, acting as a foundational, often uncredited, source of inspiration and technique. Their influence can be seen everywhere, from the subtle incorporation of fermentation and seasoning in fine dining menus to the mass-produced flavor profiles and commercial food processing that stock grocery shelves nationwide. What began as an imperative for sheer survival in the face of violent oppression blossomed into genuine, transcendent culinary innovation.

It was a process of alchemy, transforming the most humble, overlooked ingredients into culinary masterpieces of deep, complex flavor that tantalized the senses and celebrated the artistry of cooking. Tragically, for generations, the true source of this culinary brilliance was systematically ignored, dismissed, or outright stolen and rebranded by those who sought to profit from the ingenuity of others. This rich cultural patrimony, once the marker of an enslaved people who persevered in the face of oppression, was adopted, commercialized, and then became the profitable, mainstream standard for others, often without acknowledgment of its originators or appreciation for the labor that birthed these vibrant traditions. Many contemporary chefs and food enthusiasts remain unaware of the historical significance and the profound stories embedded in these recipes, which are testament to resilience and creativity, highlighting the need to honor and reclaim these narratives that contribute so richly to our culinary landscape.

Capoeira Angola and Esgrima de Machete y Bordón: A comparative analysis

At first glance, Capoeira Angola and Esgrima de Machete y Bordón might appear to be distinctly different martial arts, one focusing on unarmed combat and the other on weaponry. However, a deeper examination reveals a fascinating tapestry of shared principles, philosophies, and movement patterns that bind them together. These striking similarities are not coincidental but rather deeply rooted in their historical origins, cultural contexts, and the ingenious ways in which communities adapted to adversity.

1. Shared Cultural Heritage and Adaptation:

A Response to Oppression

One of the most profound overarching similarities lies in their very genesis. Both art forms emerged from communities that, at various points in history, faced significant oppression or a pressing need for self-defense. This shared crucible of challenging circumstances led to the development of martial traditions that prioritized adaptability, resourcefulness, and often, a degree of subterfuge. Moreover, these traditions were not merely reactive; they fostered a deeper understanding of the human condition and the complexities of conflict. Practitioners learned to channel creativity and innovation into their techniques, resulting in a rich tapestry of styles that reflected not only the necessity for survival but also the cultural heritage of the communities involved.

The evolution of these art forms was further influenced by the exchange of ideas and practices across different regions, which enriched their strategies and philosophies, ensuring their relevance throughout changing historical landscapes. Ultimately, this intertwining of necessity and cultural expression laid the foundation for art forms that continue to resonate deeply with practitioners and enthusiasts alike, inspiring them to engage with more than just the physical aspects of combat, but also the mental and spiritual dimensions inherent in these traditions.

  • Capoeira Angola: The Disguised Fight: Born from the crucible of slavery in Brazil, Capoeira Angola evolved as a “disguised fight.” Enslaved Africans, forbidden from practicing martial arts, cleverly presented their combative training as a dance, often accompanied by music and song. This inherent need for subtlety and a non-confrontational appearance is a defining characteristic of its identity. The fluid, low-to-the-ground movements, the rhythmic ginga, and the interplay of feints and evasions allowed practitioners to develop formidable fighting skills while appearing to engage in cultural expression. This dual nature not only protected its practitioners from their oppressors but also served as a powerful symbol of resistance and the preservation of African cultural heritage.
  • Esgrima de Machete y Bordón: Tools of Liberation: Similarly, Esgrima de Machete y Bordón, frequently associated with various Latin American and Caribbean cultures (with a strong historical presence in places like Colombia and Cuba), arose from environments where individuals required practical self-defense tools using readily available implements. The machete, a common agricultural tool, and the staff (bordón), a simple walking stick, were ingeniously transformed into instruments of defense and martial prowess. While perhaps less overtly “disguised” than Capoeira Angola, its development speaks to an identical spirit of resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity. This art form embodies the resourcefulness of communities who, in the absence of formal weaponry or training, forged a sophisticated martial system from everyday objects. Both arts represent an ingenious utilization of available resources and a profound cultural response to challenging circumstances, demonstrating how communities transform tools of labor into instruments of liberation and self-preservation.

2. Movement Principles and Deception: The Art of Unpredictability

At the very core of both disciplines lies a sophisticated understanding of movement, rhythm, and, crucially, deception. This shared emphasis on unpredictable motion and the ability to mislead an opponent forms a strong connection, turning every encounter into a dynamic chess match where wit and agility prevail over brute force.

  • Ginga (Capoeira Angola): The Foundation of Flow and Deception: The continuous, fluid, swaying movement known as the ginga in Capoeira Angola is far more than a mere dance step. It is a fundamental defensive and offensive posture, a dynamic base from which all other movements emanate. The ginga keeps the practitioner in constant motion, transforming them into a difficult and elusive target. Simultaneously, it creates strategic openings and cleverly disguises attacks, making it challenging for an opponent to anticipate the next move. The essence of the ginga is about maintaining impeccable balance, an internal rhythm, and a state of perpetual readiness, all while projecting an outwardly non-aggressive demeanor. It’s a dance of readiness, a perpetual feint that keeps the “jogo” (game) alive, always probing, always shifting, always searching for an advantage. It’s a physical embodiment of malícia, the cunning and trickery central to Capoeira Angola.
  • Fluid Footwork and Body Mechanics (Esgrima): The Dance of the Blade: While perhaps not as overtly “dance-like” as the ginga, effective Esgrima de Machete y Bordón also hinges on fluid footwork, precise body mechanics, and a deep understanding of distance and timing. Practitioners move in a way that meticulously minimizes their exposure to attack, creates advantageous angles, and allows for rapid, seamless changes in direction. The feint, the artful evasion, and the calculated entry are all crucial components, mirroring the deceptive elements inherent in the ginga. Every step, pivot, and body shift is designed to control the engagement, create opportunities, and misdirect the opponent. The footwork in Esgrima is a sophisticated dialogue with space and momentum, allowing the practitioner to “dance” around threats while simultaneously setting up devastating counter-attacks. The subtle shifts in body weight and the precise placement of feet enable lightning-fast transitions between offense and defense, making the Esgrimista an unpredictable and dangerous opponent.

A crucial commonality between Capoeira Angola and Esgrima de Machete y Bordón lies in their sophisticated approach to defense. Both martial arts diverge significantly from the prevalent Western notion of static, brute-force blocking. Instead, they champion body evasion and deflection as their primary defensive strategies, embodying a philosophy of intelligent movement and energy management.

  • Evasive Defense in Capoeira Angola: In Capoeira Angola, an incoming assault is rarely met with a rigid, immovable block. Such an action would disrupt the flow and rhythm central to the art. Instead, a practitioner might respond with a graceful dodge, a low sweep that shifts the body’s center of gravity, or a rapid, fluid shift in position. The essence of this defense is to move with or around the attack, rather than directly opposing its raw force. This allows the Capoeirista to maintain their own momentum and opens up opportunities for counter-attack, often before the opponent has fully committed to their strike. The defensive maneuver becomes an integral part of an ongoing dialogue of movement, constantly transforming potential threats into strategic advantages. Techniques like esquivas (dodges), rolês (rolls), and negativas (low evasions) exemplify this principle, keeping the body in constant motion and making it an elusive target.
  • Deflection and Displazamiento in Esgrima: Similarly, in Esgrima de Machete y Bordón, a cutting blow from a machete or a thrust from a stick is not typically met with a direct, forceful block that would risk damaging the practitioner’s own weapon or hand. Instead, the defense often involves a subtle angling of the blade or staff, designed to deflect the incoming force rather than absorb it. This technique, known as enganche or desvío, allows the practitioner to redirect the opponent’s momentum safely. Alternatively, a swift step to the side (desplazamiento) or a precise pivot can entirely remove the practitioner from the line of attack, allowing the opponent’s momentum to carry them past the defender. This principle enables the Esgrimista to “ride” the opponent’s momentum, redirecting or neutralizing the attack with minimal effort and without engaging in a direct, forceful confrontation. This conserves the practitioner’s energy and maintains their balance, setting them up for an effective riposte (counter-attack). The weapon becomes an extension of the body’s evasive intelligence, guiding and deflecting threats with surgical precision.

This principle of yielding to overcome, or ginga in Capoeira Angola and the concept of desplazamiento and enganche in Esgrima, is a powerful shared thread that underscores the deep strategic intelligence embedded within both martial traditions. They prioritize adaptability, fluidity, and an understanding of physics over brute strength, making them remarkably effective and efficient in combat. The goal is not merely to survive an attack, but to transform the opponent’s aggression into an opportunity for one’s own advantage, thereby turning defense into a prelude for offense.

3. Strategic Nuances: The Art of the “Game”

Both Capoeira Angola and Esgrima share a depth of strategy that extends far beyond simple, reactive attack and defense. They are, in essence, intricate “games” of wit and anticipation, demanding not just physical prowess but also keen intellect and psychological acumen.

  • The “Game” (Capoeira Angola): A Dialogue of Cunning: The roda, the circle in which capoeira is played, is fundamentally a “game” where strategy, trickery (malícia), and improvisation are paramount. There’s a constant back-and-forth, a complex, non-verbal dialogue between players that involves feints, traps, and a significant psychological component. The primary objective isn’t always to “defeat” an opponent in a conventional, aggressive sense, but rather to outsmart, outmaneuver, and skillfully control the flow and narrative of the game. It’s a contest of intelligence and adaptability, where one player attempts to read and exploit the other’s intentions while simultaneously concealing their own. The use of deceptive movements, unexpected attacks from low positions, and the subtle manipulation of rhythm all contribute to this intricate strategic dance, often leading to a moment of decisive opportunity.
  • Strategic Engagement (Esgrima): The Conversation of Weapons: Similarly, effective Esgrima is far more than just swinging a weapon. It demands a deep understanding of the opponent’s intentions, the ability to read their nuanced movements, and the skill to set up opportune moments for attack or defense. There’s a profound “conversation” that unfolds with the weapons, where each movement, each parry, and each thrust acts as a question or a calculated answer. The precise use of feints, the meticulous control of distance (often referred to as “measure”), and the ability to dictate the rhythm of the engagement are all highly strategic elements. The practitioner seeks to impose their will on the opponent, creating confusion and controlling the tempo of the interaction. This involves anticipating lines of attack, understanding the mechanics of weapon engagement, and skillfully baiting an opponent into a vulnerable position. The “game” of Esgrima is a high-stakes intellectual battle, where a single misstep can have immediate and severe consequences.

4. The Importance of Rhythm and Flow: The Unifying Pulse

Rhythm is not merely an incidental element; it is absolutely integral to the very essence of both Capoeira Angola and Esgrima. It is the invisible force that unifies movements, guides actions, and deepens the practitioner’s connection to the art.

  • Musical Heartbeat in Capoeira Angola: In Capoeira Angola, the music and singing are not simply accompaniment; they are the undeniable heart of the art form. Instruments like the berimbau, atabaque, pandeiro, and agogô, along with the call-and-response singing, dictate the pace, energy, and even the specific types of movements performed. The rhythm guides the players, fostering a fluid, almost trance-like state that significantly enhances their ability to react instinctively and improvise seamlessly. It creates a collective consciousness within the roda, uniting players through a shared temporal experience. The change in the toque (rhythm played on the berimbau) can instantly transform the “jogo” from a slow, deceptive interplay to a fast, aggressive exchange, demonstrating the music’s profound control over the martial interaction.
  • Internalized Cadence in Esgrima: While less explicit in a musical sense, rhythm is equally vital in Esgrima. Here, the “rhythm” refers to the cadence of engagement, the precise timing of attacks and defenses, and the natural flow of movements. A skilled Esgrima practitioner moves with a natural, almost musical cadence, anticipating and responding with breathtaking precision and fluidity. This internalized rhythm allows for the effective chaining of techniques, enabling seamless transitions between offensive and defensive actions, creating a relentless and unpredictable flow. It is the ability to break and establish rhythm, to disrupt an opponent’s timing while maintaining one’s own, that often dictates success. The “song” of Esgrima is found in the clash of blades, the whisper of swift footwork, and the controlled aggression of each movement.

5. Respect and Philosophy: Beyond Physical Combat

Finally, both arts often embody a deep-seated respect – for tradition, for the opponent, and for the practice itself. While undeniably capable of being devastatingly effective in a combative context, they are also profound disciplines that actively promote self-awareness, rigorous discipline, and a strong connection to a rich cultural heritage.

  • Capoeira Angola’s Ethical Framework: The “malícia” (cunning, trickery) in Capoeira Angola is not malicious in a negative, destructive sense, but rather a cultivated intelligence, wit, and strategic acumen used within the confines of the game. It emphasizes outsmarting rather than simply overpowering. The roda itself is a space of community and learning, fostering mutual respect among practitioners regardless of skill level. The philosophy teaches patience, humility, and the understanding that true mastery comes from internal growth as much as external technique. It’s a holistic practice that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit.
  • Esgrima’s Principles of Conduct: Similar philosophical underpinnings can be found in the ethical and respectful practice of Esgrima, even when engaged in a combative scenario. While a practical self-defense system, it also instills discipline, mental fortitude, and a deep appreciation for the history and wisdom embedded in its techniques. Respect for the weapon, the opponent, and the lineage of teachers is paramount. The precision and control demanded by Esgrima cultivate a sense of responsibility and a judicious use of power, reflecting the values of the cultures that nurtured its development. Both teach not just how to fight, but how to live with intention and respect, to navigate challenges with intelligence and grace, and to find strength not only in physical might but also in cultural identity and ancestral wisdom.

Deep Cultural Significance: Living Testaments to Resilience

Beyond their physical techniques, both Capoeira Angola and Esgrima de Machete y Bordón carry immense cultural significance. They are not merely fighting systems but living testaments to human ingenuity, resilience, and the enduring power of cultural expression in the face of adversity.

  • Capoeira Angola: An Embodied History: Capoeira Angola embodies the spirit of resistance, the preservation of African heritage, and a profound connection to ancestry. It is a form of embodied history, a way of remembering and celebrating a people’s struggle for freedom and identity in Brazil. The roda is a community space, a place for learning, sharing, and reinforcing cultural bonds, where songs narrate historical events, offer proverbs, and dictate the emotional landscape of the game. It is a vibrant bridge connecting the past and the present, ensuring that the legacy of those who fought for liberation continues to inspire.
  • Esgrima de Machete y Bordón: A Legacy of Self-Determination: Similarly, Esgrima de Machete y Bordón represents a powerful legacy of self-determination and cultural pride within the Afro-Caribbean and Latin American communities where it originated. It speaks to the resourcefulness of communities who, despite hardship, developed sophisticated means of protection and self-expression. These practices often hold deep ties to local traditions, folklore, and historical events, becoming symbols of regional identity and a connection to the struggles and triumphs of past generations. Its continued practice in places like Puerto Tejada, Colombia, with a motto like “Memory, freedom, and resistance,” underscores its profound role as a cultural anchor and a source of collective strength and identity for its practitioners.

In conclusion, the seemingly disparate worlds of unarmed Capoeira Angola and the weapon-based Esgrima de Machete y Bordón are, in fact, profoundly interconnected, revealing a striking commonality that transcends their surface differences. Both disciplines, forged in the crucible of necessity and cultural survival, demonstrate an intricate dance between adaptability and tradition. Their shared emphasis on fluid, deceptive movement is not merely a stylistic choice but a strategic imperative. In Capoeira Angola, this fluidity allows practitioners to evade attacks, set up unexpected counters, and maintain an unpredictable rhythm, often disguising offensive intentions within the graceful flow of the ginga. Similarly, in Esgrima de Machete y Bordón, the seemingly spontaneous shifts in footwork, body angling, and weapon manipulation are designed to create openings, disrupt an opponent’s balance, and maximize the impact of strikes, all while presenting a constantly shifting target.

Strategic adaptation, born from dire circumstances, lies at the heart of both practices. Capoeira Angola, developed by enslaved Africans in Brazil, evolved as a means of self-defense and cultural expression under the watchful eyes of their oppressors, often camouflaging its martial nature as a dance. This forced ingenuity led to a system rich in feints, subterfuge, and a deep understanding of movement dynamics in confined or challenging environments. Esgrima de Machete y Bordón, originating from the practical needs of self-preservation in various historical and social contexts where everyday tools became instruments of defense, embodies a similar spirit. Its practitioners learned to maximize the effectiveness of their tools—the machete and the staff (bordón)—through innovative techniques that adapted to different threats and scenarios, often in the absence of formal military training. This inherent rhythm, whether expressed through the berimbau and accompanying instruments in Capoeira Angola or through the precise timing and cadence of strikes and parries in Esgrima de Machete y Bordón, serves as more than just a tempo; it is a vital communicative element, a generator of flow, and a psychological tool that can both calm and disorient.

Beyond their physical techniques, both Capoeira Angola and Esgrima de Machete y Bordón are imbued with deep cultural significance. They are not merely combat forms but intricate systems of movement, philosophy, and cultural memory. Capoeira Angola serves as a living archive of Afro-Brazilian history, resistance, and identity, its movements and music carrying the echoes of generations past. It is a communal practice that fosters solidarity, respect, and a profound connection to ancestral heritage. Esgrima de Machete y Bordón, while perhaps less widely known, holds similar importance within the communities where it is practiced, representing a tangible link to historical forms of self-reliance, community defense, and the practical application of skill in the face of adversity. These arts embody ethical frameworks, principles of respect, humility, and the judicious use of power, reflecting the values of the cultures that nurtured them.

As they continue to evolve, adapting to modern contexts while steadfastly honoring their rich and vital legacies, these traditions serve as powerful reminders of humanity’s boundless capacity for creativity, unwavering perseverance, and the enduring power of culture to shape, sustain, and empower individuals and communities. They demonstrate how practical skills can transcend their immediate utility to become profound expressions of identity, resilience, and the human spirit. In a world that often seeks to divide, the convergence of these two seemingly disparate martial arts highlights universal truths about movement, strategy, and the profound ways in which culture informs and enriches our understanding of conflict and connection.

I JUST HAD THE BEST WEEKEND EVER!

Greetings!

Last Friday morning (5/30/25), I arrived in Oakland for the long-awaited 10th anniversary celebration of Grupo No balanco D’Angola, a prestigious Capoeira Angola group that has made significant contributions to the community, which I previously wrote about in detail (Click HERE). The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as friends, families, and Capoeira enthusiasts gathered to honor a decade of dedication to this unique art form. The weekend was filled with excitement and learning, featuring a series of fascinating workshops led by the renowned Mestre Moraes and his talented student Mestre Kenji, who hails from Japan. Master Moraes’s deep knowledge and passion for Capoeira Angola shone through as he expertly guided us through various drills and practices. These workshops focused on fundamental movements, intricate techniques, principles, and the essential music of Capoeira Angola, immersing participants in the rich cultural heritage of this beautiful art form. As we practiced, the energy of the group soared, fostering a spirit of camaraderie that transcended borders and backgrounds. On the last day, there was a roda and a barbecue in the host Sergio’s backyard, where laughter and celebration echoed, allowing all to connect, share stories, and reflect on their journey within the world of Capoeira. The warmth of the community and the joy of movement created lasting memories that would resonate long after the event concluded.

Hence, this blog post.

A highlight of the event was undoubtedly Mestre Moraes taking the time to share his personal insights about his transformative journey in Capoeira, including anecdotes that resonate deeply with both seasoned practitioners and novices alike. He emphasized what it truly means to be a dedicated and authentic angoleiro, offering wisdom that is both inspiring and enlightening for everyone involved. Additionally, the sense of community and camaraderie that blossomed throughout the weekend made the experience even more memorable and impactful for all who attended.

And it’s always great to see some of the Capoeira Angola fam from SoCal…

In case you’re wondering, the guy next to me is Brian Shields, a dedicated student of Capoeira Angola with Ngolo Preto Velho, based in the San Bernadino area.

You’re not gonna see pictures or videos of this event on this blog, basically because I went there to celebrate and to LEARN, not for some photo ops. However, I will show you some photos of the individuals below.

Of course, the man to the far left in this picture needs no introduction, but I’m gonna do it anyway.

MESTRE MORAES, who began training in Capoeira de Angola at age 7, founded Grupo Capoeira Angola Pelourinho (GCAP) in 1980 to preserve traditional teachings and return to capoeira’s philosophical and African roots, particularly from Angola. He aimed to create a space free from commercial influences, honoring his mentors’ legacy while preserving capoeira’s authenticity. GCAP serves as a guardian of capoeira’s history and as a platform for education and cultural exchange, promoting understanding among practitioners through workshops and community events, thereby reinforcing cultural identity in a changing world.

Yes the video is in Portuguese, but like I always say, if you’re in Capoeira and you don’t know Portuguese, then you should learn.

The man between me and Mestre Moraes is Contra Mestre Sergio Bittencort Ferreira, founder of Grupo No Balanco D’Angola and main host of the event. He grew up in Belo Horizonte, a city rich in culture and tradition, where he began practicing Capoeira Angola with GCAP at a young age. His early experiences in this vibrant environment ignited a deep passion for the art form, and he quickly became an accomplished capoeirista. Over the years, he has dedicated himself to not only mastering the techniques of Capoeira Angola but also to preserving its rich history and cultural significance. Through his teaching, he aims to inspire the next generation and ensure that the traditional elements of Capoeira Angola are transmitted and appreciated by all, thus fostering a vibrant legacy that celebrates its roots while embracing the future.

Here he is in action:

Now, the man standing next to me is Kenji Shibata, known as MESTRE KENJI.

He has dedicated over 20 years to promoting Capoeira angola in Japan through GCAP. His commitment to the art includes not only mastering its skills but also teaching and nurturing new practitioners, instilling values of discipline, respect, and community. He actively organizes workshops and cultural events that enhance understanding of Capoeira angola, bridging cultural gaps and ensuring its traditions are preserved. Kenji inspires students to embrace Capoeira as a means of personal growth, creating a supportive environment that fosters self-expression and cultural pride.

Now, my weekend cannot be complete by talking about this man here with me, Daniel Mattar, a very skilled Angoleiro, totally dedicated to Capoeira Angola, not to mention a great father and gentleman. His passion for Capoeira Angola is truly inspiring; it’s evident in the way he moves, blending agility and grace with resilience and strength.

Once again, I wish I knew more about his story in Capoeira Angola. I’m not even sure of what title he holds (I think it’s treinel, but I could be wrong). Man, I gotta learn to start interviewing people.

However, I do know that he hails from the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, a hub of cultural richness and diversity. Before he joined the respected Grupo No Balanco D’Angola, he was with the renowned Group Fundacao Internacional Capoeira Angola (FICA for short), where he honed his skills and embraced the deep philosophical roots of this beautiful art form. Daniel’s journey not only embodies the essence of Capoeira but also reflects his commitment to nurturing the next generation, as he often shares his knowledge and experiences with young practitioners, instilling in them the same love and respect for the traditions of Capoeira Angola that he holds dear.

Before I left Oakland to come back home, I took a moment to pay my respects to MESTRE THEMBA and the good people at Grupo Ngolo Preto Velho, who have also played significant roles in my journey and the community I cherish. Their wisdom and guidance have been invaluable, and visiting them always fills me with a sense of peace and gratitude.

What you’re seeing below is the sun rising in the early morning, casting a beautiful golden hue across the sky at Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles, an hour and a half before I made it home. The quiet of the early morning blended seamlessly with the hustle and bustle that awaited as the city began to wake, reminding me of the contrasting energies that exist in life.

Once again, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Mestres Moraes and Kenji, CM Sergio, Alma (HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE BOTH OF YOU!!!), Daniel, Kofi, Jeff, and all of you at Grupo No Balanco D’Angola for all of the love and camaraderie you’ve shown us guests. Your warm hospitality has truly made our experience unforgettable, allowing us to feel like part of your vibrant community.

The passion you have for capoeira Angola is palpable and inspiring, igniting a shared enthusiasm that resonates deeply within all of us. It’s in the smiles we exchanged during practice, and the incredible connections we’ve made that showcase the essence of what you embody as a group. We deeply appreciate the dedication and effort you put into nurturing both your craft and your visitors, creating an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and valued. Thank you for making our time together so enriching and memorable; we look forward to many more moments shared in the spirit of capoeira.

Axe!

Oh, and one more thing. Thank you Sergio for the beautiful event shirt:

Well it was beautiful until it took a 8 hour bus ride in my luggage. And I promise I’ll be wearing it in STYLE one day… After I lose some weight.

THE SURVIVOR SERIES

Welcome to the Survivor Series. In this new series, we talk about all aspects of Urban and Wilderness Survival, exploring essential skills, practical tips, and insightful strategies that can prepare you for unexpected challenges in both city environments and the great outdoors. Our discussions will cover everything from shelter-building techniques to food sourcing, self-defense strategies, and the importance of mental resilience, ensuring that you are equipped to handle any situation with confidence and resourcefulness.

Today, we start off with one of the most fundamental aspects of survival; How to use the machete as a tool.

We often talk about the machete as merely a weapon, but the fact is that it transcends this narrow classification; it is fundamentally a versatile tool that has been integral to various cultures around the world. As a tool, It can be used effectively for cutting through dense vegetation, making it an essential tool for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts who need to clear paths in thick forests. Additionally, machetes are invaluable for performing various agricultural tasks, such as harvesting crops, chopping branches for firewood, and preparing the land for planting. In many parts of the world, they are a primary tool for subsistence farming and play a crucial role in local economies.

Moreover, in situations of jungle survival, a machete can mean the difference between life and death, providing the means to create shelters, gather food, and defend oneself against potential threats. Its versatility and practicality make it an indispensable companion for anyone venturing into wild terrains. In addition to cutting through thick vegetation, a machete can be employed to fashion tools, carve out paths, and even prepare food by slicing fruits or proteins. The blade’s weight and design allow for effective chopping, enabling survivalists to craft sturdy shelters from fallen branches and foliage, which is crucial for protection against the elements and wildlife.

Furthermore, when threatened by aggressive animals or hostile individuals, having a machete can provide a crucial psychological advantage, instilling confidence and a sense of security. Understanding how to wield this tool efficiently, along with proper maintenance, can significantly enhance one’s chances of survival in the wilderness, proving that a simple piece of steel can become a lifeline in desperate circumstances.

I have made a YouTube Video Playlist about using the Machete as a tool:

I’ll end this article with the video below.

In this captivating video, Xander Budnick documents his intense and thrilling 5-day solo survival journey in the remote and lush Guyanese Amazon Jungle, where he immerses himself in nature’s wild beauty while hunting for food and foraging for edible plants.

Throughout this immersive experience, he faces the numerous challenges posed by the unpredictable environment, including adverse weather conditions, dangerous wildlife, and the dense foliage that can make navigation particularly difficult. As rainstorms sweep through the landscape, transforming serene paths into treacherous mudslides, he learns to adapt quickly, devising makeshift shelters to protect himself from the elements.

With each passing day, Xander shares invaluable survival tips and techniques that highlight not only the importance of resourcefulness and resilience but also the intricate relationships between man and nature in such an untouched wilderness. Each tip reflects not just a practical solution but also a profound respect for the ecosystem surrounding him, drawing attention to the delicate balance that exists in this vibrant habitat where every sound, from a rustling leaf to a distant animal call, becomes a crucial part of his survival narrative.

And of course, You’ll see the machete being used in a survival situation.

HAPPY CAPTAIN COOKED DAY!!!

 

Hi everyone.

I hope you all have a wonderful Valentine’s Day. However, we at Jogo Corpo Fechado would like to celebrate and honor another event that happened on this day.

On this day, British navigator Captain James Cook was killed in Hawaii.

“On February 14, 1779 Captain James Cook of the british royal navy was killed by natives in Kealakekua Bay, on the Big Island of Hawaii. Cook was a true savage, who sailed across the world bringing murder, rape, disease, and colonialism to native peoples all over the Pacific.

When he was killed, Cook was trying to kidnap the Hawaiian Aliʻi (tribal chief) Kalaniʻōpuʻu in response to an unknown person stealing a small boat. In the process, he had threatened to open fire on the islanders.

At this point, the Hawaiians decided they had enough of Cook’s bs, threatened with mass murder and the kidnapping of one of their tribal leaders, the Hawaiian islanders gave him a beatdown on the beach, and a knife to the chest. This put an end to a lifetime of predatory behaviour and conquest of lands in the service to the British Empire.” – The Australian Holocaust

So today, we at Jogo Corpo Fechado would like all of our readers to join the Hawai’ians and the peoples of the Pacific, as we celebrate Hauʻoli Lā Hoʻomake iā Kapena Kuke, Happy Death of Captain Cook day!