Livestock is an integral part of the economy of Brazil since before its discovery in the XVI century. Already in the colonial era, it was one of the main sources of wealth for Portugal and its main export product. Through livestock, one can better understand and analyze the colonial history, living conditions at the time and the economic consequences left, which still endure today.

The rooting of livestock

Cattle farmers have been exploring the country's humid tropical forests for centuries, such as in the Amazon region and the South Pampas.There were several species of natural wild animals, such as the ocelot, laziness, fox, deer, yellow cow, wild boar and wild horse. Wild animals were also hunted by Jesuit priests and native Indians for their meat, leather, skins and even feces.

In the XVIII century, with the development of Brazil, Portuguese settlers in search of more land and opportunities for gains brought with them European cattle.This, along with the Indo-African slave trade, brought a remarkably differentiated social profile to the economy and livestock.

Livestock development in colonial Brazil

With the expansion of livestock, it became easier for European settlers to explore the lands of Brazil and actively engage in the so-called extractive economy, aimed at producing food for export. Many farms began to settle. These farms produced cattle, chickens, sheep, horses, pigs and other sheep. As the slave trade increased, they were also used in the livestock business.

Livestock had a key role in the colonial economy. Therefore, it gained a great boost with exports abroad and became a practiced means to increase the wealth of the provinces.For example, from 1782, cattle exports were already authorized by the Portuguese colonial regime.

Impact of livestock farming on society

The development of livestock during the colonial period affected the resulting society.Because of cattle exports, cattle exporters were seen as the main responsible for the economic success of the country.These cattle exporters became a group of rich people and developed for themselves a high social position.On the other hand, this increased economic inequality, since most other segments of colonial society did not have the same access to the cattle trade.

In addition, livestock farming also altered the way many Brazilian provinces were financed.To achieve their export production target, many colonial officials urged the construction of large-scale farms in their province.

Colonial livestock legacy

Colonial livestock farming has significantly affected Brazilian economic conditions on many fronts. The increase in inequality resulting from its development is still felt today.In addition, Brazil's economy still depends on cattle as one of the main sources of income. Thanks to the economic policy established during the colonial period, livestock is still seen as a viable means of earnings.

Colonial livestock in Brazil had a profound and high-level impact on the country's history.The cattle trade generated many forms of wealth and independence and is still present in the Brazilian economy.This contributes to the country's economic diversification and to the maintenance of national wealth.It also highlighted the differentials of economic power in colonial society. Even nearly four centuries later, the legacy of colonial livestock still endures.