Overview of Brazil

Profile

Brazil is a federal republic with diverse natural environments ranging from the Amazon rainforest to the Pampas grasslands. It boasts the fifth largest land area and population in the world and the largest economy in South America, known for producing coffee, soybeans, and iron ore. Portuguese is the official language, and historically immigrants from Europe, Africa, and Asia have blended to create a unique culture. It is also famous as a global cultural hub for soccer, carnival, and bossa nova.

Official name: Federative Republic of Brazil
Common name: Brazil
Numeric code: 076
Alpha-3 code: BRA
Alpha-2 code: BR
Population: Approx. 216 million (2023)
Population density: Approx. 25
Primary languages: Portuguese
Major religions: Roman Catholic, Protestant, Non-religious
National anthem: Hino Nacional Brasileiro
Calling code: +55
Internet TLD: .br

History

Gained independence from Portugal in 1822, transitioned to the current federal republic through the republican revolution of 1889.

Following Portuguese arrival in 1500, colonial rule continued until 1822 when Dom Pedro I declared independence and established an empire. After the abolition of slavery, Brazil transitioned to a republic in 1889. Following the Vargas era in the 1930s, military rule lasted from 1964 until the return to civilian government in 1985. In the 21st century, Brazil experienced economic growth during the resource boom and has strengthened its international presence as part of the BRICS nations.

Geography & climate

Diverse terrain spreading from Amazon basin tropical rainforest, central Cerrado grasslands, southern Pampas, to the world's largest Pantanal wetlands.

Multiple climates from tropical rainforest and savanna to warm humid

Area: South America / 8515767 km²
Capital: Brasília
Largest city: São Paulo
Coastal status: Yes
Bordering countries: Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana

Natural resources

Iron ore, Bauxite, Manganese, Gold, Petroleum, Natural gas, Uranium, Hydroelectric energy, Timber, Vast arable land, Abundant freshwater resources, Emerald, Crystal, Wind power resources, Solar power resources

Politics

Government: Federal Republic (Presidential System)

Economy

Currency: Brazilian Real (BRL)

GDP (nominal): 1.92 trillion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 4.08 trillion USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Portuguese

Time zone: BRT, AMT, FNT, ACT

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Pardo (mixed), White, Black, Asian, Indigenous

Life expectancy

75.5

Literacy rate

94

National sports

Soccer, Volleyball, Futsal, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Surfing, Capoeira, Motorsports