History of Capoeira

     Capoeira was originated among the African slaves in Brazil in the sixteenth century, as a form of self-defence. Disguised as a dance to escape their masters prohibition, the Capoeira developed through centuries a complex art. To ensure their survival, the traditional forms were infused with a new musical accompaniment. Capoeira's deadly potential was hidden from the slave-masters by its dance-like elegance, baffling acrobatics, and the engaging rhythms of its music. From its roots the art elaborates a game and fight technique completely original.

     For the African slaves, capoeira was a literal and symbolic means of survival. It became a tool of escape and defence, making freedom attainable and affirming strength, self-reliance and self esteem.

     The survival and evolution of Capoeira is the result of the dedicated work of numerous old time masters. In the 1930s, Mestre Bimba introduced a style known as "Regional", characterized by a more upright stance, the incorporation of various grappling, kicking and striking techniques from Ju Jitsu and Batuque, and also structured training sequences of Capoeira movements designed by himself. Mestre Pastinha, the father and protector of Capoeira Angola, also had a very great influence on modern Capoeira, describing his art form as being, " Whatever the mouth eats ". Many of the surrealistically poetic songs, both sad and happy, that are sung in Rodas today, were written by Mestre Pastinha. He was a master of simile, and the lyrical content of his songs, like the moves of the game, often disguise another meaning.