Brazil celebrates National Historian Day

Brazil celebrates National Historian Day on August 19, a date established by Law No. 12.130 in 2009. The date commemorates the birth of Joaquim Nabuco, born in Recife in 1849, who was a prominent historian, journalist, jurist, politician, and diplomat.

Nabuco is recognized for his significant role in the Brazilian abolitionist movement. His 1883 work, ‘O Abolicionismo’, analyzed slavery through historical, legal, social, religious, and political lenses, arguing that the institution was deeply embedded in the country's economic and social structures. He served as a deputy for the Province of Pernambuco and was a key figure in the campaign that eventually led to the signing of the Lei Áurea in 1888.