Explore Brazil: September 2023 - Celebrating Brazilian Independence
Exploring Brazilian History: Brazilian Independence Day
Prince Pedro's declaration of Brazilian independence in 1822 was a pivotal moment in the nation's history. A Portuguese colony for over three centuries, Brazil’s discontent—and a desire for greater autonomy—had been simmering for years, fueled in part by economic tensions, as Brazil sugar and coffee exports had become increasingly profitable for the Portuguese crown. Meanwhile, in Europe, Napoleon's invasion of Portugal had created a power vacuum that allowed for greater self-determination in the colonies.
Pedro Américo’s "Independência ou Morte" (Independence or Death) (1888).
On September 7, 1822, Prince Pedro, acting as regent for his father, King João VI of Portugal , stood by the banks of the Ipiranga River in São Paulo. Faced with mounting pressure from Brazilian nationalists and fearing the loss of the colony, he famously declared, Independência ou Morte! (Independence or Death), effectively severing Brazil's ties with Portugal and setting in motion a series of events that would lead to the establishment of the Empire of Brazil, with Pedro as its first Emperor.
In the ensuing years, battling both internal conflicts and external threats, Pedro I solidified his rule,. drafting a constitution, maintaining stability, and expanding Brazil's territory. Though his reign was not without challenges, and he would eventually abdicate the throne to his son Dom Pedro II, it was his decisive declaration of independence that laid the foundation for Brazil's emergence as a sovereign nation, ending over 300 years of colonial rule and setting the stage for its future as an empire and, eventually, a republic.
Featured Coffees
FEATURED BRAZILIAN BLEND: Samba
What better way to celebrate Brazil’s independence than with a little Samba. Our Samba Blend is robust and invigorating—velvety chocolate smoothness with a full body your senses will dance to.
FEATURED REGION: Mantiqueira de Minas
The Mantiqueira de Minas region has long been one of Brazil’s most treasured regions for quality coffee.
FEATURED MICROLOT: Andre Barhouch Carvalho Vilela, Fazenda Santa Rufina
When we were tasting coffees last harvest at Cooperativa Agropecuária do Vale do Sapucaí (COOPERVASS), one coffee really stood out. This microlot is from a new partner, Andre Barhouch Carvalho Vilela and his Fazenda Santa Rufina. This naturally processed Yellow Catuai is fruit-forward with strong notes of caramel and chocolate. We are proud to bring his coffees to Texas for the first time and hope you enjoy it as much as we do.