Cultural ContributionsHistory

Archives of institutes, biographies of personalities and records of corporations’ history tell the societies’ story from the researchers’ point of view. Many studies that revealed important occurrences in Brazil and other countries have received Odebrecht’s sponsorship over recent years.

The works narrate events such as the 400-year history of the São Bento Monastery, the life of Father Anchieta, black peoples' contribution to the country's development, the history of the Navy and Air Force and the role of forts during past centuries. Also of special importance are the Itamaraty Map Collection, Brazilian fauna and flora in the 18th century and the discovery of Cabral.

By reviewing history, communities can build their futures based on the experience of the past.
 

Castro Alves (Poetry and Biography)

It is thought that Antônio de Castro Alves (1847-1871) and Gonçalves Dias (1823-1864) perhaps share the title of greatest Brazilian Romanticism poet. However, he certainly earned a name in the social sphere with his adamant criticism of slavery and his defense of Abolition.

The literary virtues and biographical tribulations that immortalized him are gathered together in Castro Alves (Poesias e Biografia), a two-volume edition published in 1997. The book was launched for the 150-year celebration of his birth as part of Projeto Memória (“Memory Project”).

The biographic volume summarizes the romantic life and political involvement of Castro Alves, whose work is defined by Flávio Aguiar, Literature professor at University of São Paulo, as “an invitation into the world of imagination.” The book of poetry includes his most famous works on romantic, idyllic and social themes, illustrated by different painters – including Carlos Bastos, Calasans Neto, Emanoel Araújo and Carybé.

With preface by Eduardo Portella, Castro Alves (Poetry and Biography) features the biographical research of Maria da Graça Mascarenhas and photos by Mário Cravo Neto.