After freeing all slaves in 1888, Pedro II is forced to give up his throne by military forces. Brazil is declared a republic. 1890s Coffee becomes Brazil's most important crop. The boom in coffee production brings a wave of almost one million European immigrants during the 19th century. 1894 Prudente de Morais is the first elected civilian President.
Brazil declares war on Germany.
A huge road construction project encourages people to settle in the Amazon region of Brazil. 1977 Brazilian Indians, or native peoples, gather at their first national conference. A new democratic constitution is established. Indians get full civil rights. A Pataxo Indian and his son prepare for a protest against celebrations of Brazil's 500th anniversary.