Photos of Brazil
This 1955 picture captures the essence of a summer day on Rio's Arpoador Beach in Brazil's richest and most densely populated region: the southeast. The territory on its own has more people than any other South American country and contains the nation's business center, São Paulo, as well as its capital, Rio de Janeiro. Brazil ranks among the world's highest in economic inequality, and the southeast's luxurious living standards often come under fire by impoverished regions such as the drought-stricken northeast.
Capoeira dancers practice their acrobatic martial art in Brazil's northeastern state of Bahia. The art was developed by slaves in the 19th century as a way to secretly transmit African culture and fighting skills, both of which were forbidden by the Portuguese colonists.
The streets of Rio de Janeiro are thronged with people during the annual Carnival celebration. The festival is a plunge into earthly pleasure on the last day before Lent on the Catholic calendar, which calls for fasting and abstinence.
Samba drummers liven up the atmosphere on Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro. In 1965, Brazilians Astrud Gilberto and Stan Getz won a Grammy Award for their international hit song, "The Girl From Ipanema." The song popularized the fun-filled image of Brazil and introduced the world to the sultry style of the region's bossa nova music.
Painted dancers boost the sizzle of Carnival in Salvador, Brazil. Carnival gained popularity in Brazil during the 1830s when the rising middle class imported the practice of masquerade parties from Paris. The festival eventually melded African and native Indian characteristics to create a Carnival of distinct flavor.
Cristo Redentor, or Christ the Redeemer, opens his arms wide as if to embrace all of Rio de Janeiro
Cristo Redentor, or Christ the Redeemer, opens his arms wide as if to embrace all of Rio de Janeiro. The statue stands atop Corcovado Mountain, which visitors can climb by taxi or cog railway to gain unparalleled views of the city.
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