Apocalypses in the History of Brazil

This article discusses the influence of Apocalyptic in two periods of Brazilian history. It deals first with the activity of Pedro de Rates Henequim, who opposed Portuguese colonial policy in Brazil on the basis of an interpretation of apocalyptic. Vieira’s activity led in 1741 to his trial and condemnation under the Inquisition. The second historical event discussed is the establishment by Antônio Conselheiro of a community at Canudos, in the backlands of Bahia province. The community opposed Brazil’s political regime. Conselheiro drew on apocalyptic images to promote his vision. This article argues that the community in Canudos was encouraged by Conselheiro to expect that their resistance would establish genuine social transformation. biblical texts, particularly the Revelation of John, have played a more important role within the history of Brazil than is regularly conceded in academic studies.