Capoeira

The vast majority of people in the world have, unfortunately, never heard of Capoeira. Capoeira can best be defined as a form of martial arts. However, it is much, much more than that. It is a strong combination of Capoeira Music and Capoeira Moves, or, in other words of fighting, dancing, and music. Capoeira Moves and the style in general has its roots in Brazil, though it is also considered somewhat African in nature. In this unique art form, students gather into a circle and then each student has a change to play an instrument, sing, or to spar with an opponent. Spars tend to be quick, fluid, and almost like dancing in their fluidity. The focus of a fight is usually on beauty and not upon winning or “beating” the other contender.

Capoeira actually has a fascinating and very complex history, despite its relative obscurity outside of Brazil. After the inception of the art form, both Capoeira Moves and Capoeira Music were outlawed in Brazil for a short time. As far back as the 1800s, local law enforcement felt that the art form was too dangerous. Furthermore, Brazilian slaves also participated in it frequently, something that law enforcement felt was somewhat dangerous or risky. However, people still continued to practice the art form secretly and sometimes even as a form of protest.

Eventually, however, Capoeira was saved by a man named Manuel dos Reis Machado, who managed to almost singlehandedly turn the banned Capoeira Music and Capoeira Moves into an art form that came to be thought of as “academic.” Thanks to his efforts, the ban was officially lifted in 1930. Two years later, a school for the practice of the art form was founded and, by 1942, another school, with several more to follow, was also opened. Eventually, other styles began to spring up and more schools with different focuses were gradually formed.

Today, many people, from all over the world and from varying skill levels, perform in Capoeira. Some people focus mainly on Capoeira Moves and train in either Ginga, attacking, defensive fighting, or some combination of all of these. Others concentrate on perfecting their musical skills, and some practice just for fun and for love of the art form. The art is becoming more and more popular n America, though it is most often used as a cultural teaching tool. However, some Americans and some people from other countries do participate in this art form today. It is still thriving and going strong in Brazil, where it is regarded as an important part of both Brazilian culture and history. Those who are interested in studying this art form may have to do a little searching to find a school, but the search will be well worth it in the end.