Capoeira:Let's Dance

Capoeira Throughout The Years

At first, Capoeira was considered illegal in Brazil and everyone playing was arrested. However, a man known as Mestre Bimba did not let Capoeira down. He placed great efforts in convincing the Brazilian authorities that Capoeira has a great cultural value and shall become an official fighting style. He succeeded in his endeavor and created the Capoeira Regional style. In 1932 he created the first Capoeira School – Academia-escola de Capoeira Regional at the Engenho de Brotas in Salvador-Bahia. Thus, Mestre Bimba made what was once considered illegal an official martial art.

In 1942 was created the first Capoeira Angola school – Centro Esportivo de Capoeira by Mestre Pastinha. At this time, Capoeira was still practiced by poor black Brazilians. Few years later, however few Capoeira Mestres began to teach Capoeira in the United States and Europe.