Federative Republic of Brazil
Early History Brazil was discovered in 1500 by the Portuguese fleet commanded by Pedro Alvares Cabral. As Cabral landed his feet in Brazil there was great zeal and gusto among the Portuguese and the King started to back numerous explorations. However, the Portuguese failed to discover prized and valuable metals in Brazil and reduced their attention to the region in order to focus on trade with Asia which was much rewarding. The European adversaries were quick to take advantage of Portugal’s lack of interest in the South American country. The French were able to intrude the Portuguese claims in Brazil and started to transport dyewood to Europe. The laziness and lack of concern of Portugal ended during the rule of John III. He was the one who steadily shifted the focus from Asia to America. In 1533, the Crown of Portugal made the first organized efforts to establish government in Brazil. They divided the Brazilian colony into 15 captaincies each of which broadened 50 leagues...