Millions of Africans were shipped over during 350 years of the slave trade. Although officially abolished in 1888, slave labor continues in many parts of Brazil today. Over four centuries, Brazil's wealth was accumulated by the work of slaves. One of the greatest black leaders of the Americas, slave leader Zumbi, initiated and led the Quilombo dos Palmares, a utopian community of freed slaves and an amazing example of resistance. He was murdered 300 years ago.
Blacks only appear on TV as soccer stars, suspects or murder victims.
Many blacks are ashamed of their color and prefer to describe themselves as sunburnt, coffee-colored or dark. There is very little racial tolerance and discrimination is common place. Most black drivers are taxi drivers, chauffeurs or bus-drivers. Few are car owners. The majority of street children, prostitutes, prisoners, unemployed and victims of police violence are black.