Cultural Tidbits on BRAZIL:

Brazil was populated by Native Americans prior to being colonized by Spain and Portugal in the late 1400’s.  Brazil was claimed as a Portuguese territory in 1500.  Portuguese colonists began bringing African slaves to Brazil in the 16th century.  Sugar cane was the original crop in Brazil replaced in importance by coffee in the 19th century.  Brazil declared independence on September 7, 1822 and was led by Emporer Don Pedro I.  Slavery was abolished in 1888 and Brazil was profiting nicely from the coffee trade until the depression of 1929.  Getulio Vargas was installed as president by the military in 1930.  Vargas later shot himself in 1954 after coming under attack by critics.  Brazil’s capital was originally Rio de Janeiro but was moved to Basilia in 1960.  Shortly thereafter, in 1964, the military took power again for the next 20 years.  Military rule ended in 1985 with the election of Jose Samey.    

Based on Brazil’s history it has a mix of races.  “Mestizos” are the combination of Portuguese settlers and native women.   “Mulattoes” are the descendents of the Africans and Portuguese.  Brazil has a wide mix of European, African and native ancestry.  The Sao Paulo residents are called “Paulistas” and the residents of Rio de Janeiro are called “Cariocas”.   There are often multi-cultural celebrations in Brazil ranging from German beer fests to Afro-Caribbean carnival.  There is somewhat of a class system in Brazil with people of color being generally poorer.   There are extreme contrasts between the rich and the poor.  The poor live in “favelas” (shanty towns). 

The family is an important part of the Brazilian lifestyle.  Both immediate and extended family are close.  It is commonplace for multiple generations to live together in one house.  Most Brazilians are very religious and worship together with their families.

Brazilian Societal Structure:   
Brazilians are more hierarchical and value leadership.  This hierarchy can often lead to some bureaucracy when dealing with the government. In keeping with the closeness of family, Brazil is a group oriented culture. Brazilians will not always be overly eager to speak out or act individually preferring instead to review with their group.  Brazilians are very interpersonal and relationship centric.  While it may take time to develop relationships, once they are in place they will last a long time.  Trust and friendship are very important for business and personal relationships. Non verbal language is often used to enhance verbal expressions. Brazilians view time as fluid.  Deadlines and invitation start times are approximate.  Tardiness is common and expected, as is going late into the night. Brazilians also value their vacation time and will attempt to ensure that a good work-life balance is achieved.

Things to Watch Out For:
Never say that another country is better at football (soccer) than Brazil unless you are looking for a fight! Do not use the “OK sign – it is vulgar to Brazilians
Avoid chewing gum in public places
Cover your mouth if you are using a toothpick
Don’t use business engagements solely as an opportunity to “network” – longer term relationships are more important