Brasilia: A national project for development and integration

Abstract

In the middle of the twentieth century, Brazil went through a pivotal period in its history. On the political front, Brazilians tried to improve and consolidate their democratic institutions so as to bring the country closer to the leading nations of the free world. In the area of economics, the government strengthened and implemented a program to substitute imported goods through the creation of a large and sophisticated industrial park. It also invested heavily in the development of complementary economic infrastructure, and began to conceive social policies to eliminate poverty. In short, with economic development, a strengthened political structure, and a commitment to social justice, Brazil intended to improve its domestic profile and play a more assertive role in a changing world.