Brazil was formally claimed in 1500 by the Portuguese navigator Pedro Cabral. It was ruled from Lisbon as a colony until 1808 when the Portuguese royal family, having fled from Napoleon's army, established the seat of government first in Salvador and later in Rio de Janeiro. I, as regent. Dom Pedro II, ruled from 1831 to 1889, when a federal republic was established. Iron ore, manganese, bauxite, nickel, uranium, gemstones, oil.
Brazil is a country rich in resources and natural advantages.
To date, however, its economic performance has lagged behind its potential. Economically, it is a country of contrasts ranging from sophisticated economic centers around Sao Paolo to relatively undeveloped trading outposts on the Amazon. Industrial development has been concentrated in the southeastern states of Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Parana, and Rio Grande do Sul but is now expanding to include the northeast and center west. Visas are required of US citizens. No inoculations are required for entry.