Why Brazil?: Pursuing Freedom in the Americas

Discover the compelling parallel lines of development between the United States and Brazil. This insightful book explores why these two New World giants, despite shared geographical scale and Western Christian heritage, have charted different courses in their pursuit of ordered liberty.

Lucas Berlanza and Alex Catharino move beyond common stereotypes to offer a nuanced understanding of Brazil. While acknowledging disparities in development, poverty, and economic freedom, the authors argue that shared civilizational roots provide a basis for mutual learning and cooperation.

This book traces these differences back to their colonial origins. It examines divergent colonization models-the English "pioneers" versus the Portuguese "bandeirantes"-and how religious foundations shaped their societies, politics, and economic paths. It also illuminates their unique "liberal processes of independence," with the American Revolution serving as an inspiration, even as Brazil forged its own monarchical path to nationhood.

The authors compare Brazil's "crowned liberalism" and turbulent constitutional history with the American "republican revolution" and its more stable framework. Yet, hope permeates this analysis, particularly as Brazil grapples with contemporary challenges.

"Now is the time for the citizens of Brazil and the United States to learn from each other and work together for a rightly ordered liberty that promotes human dignity, encourages entrepreneurship, and produces genuine human flourishing."

John C. Pinheiro

Director of Research

Acton Institute