Zumbi dos Palmares, an important figure in Brazilian history, was the leader of Quilombo dos Palmares, a settlement established by escaped enslaved Africans in the 17th century. These maroon communities served as sanctuaries for those fleeing the brutalities of slavery imposed by Portuguese colonizers. Zumbi emerged as a prominent leader of the Quilombo, advocating for and fighting for freedom against colonial forces intent on suppressing the maroon population. His leadership cultivated a strong sense of identity and resistance among the formerly enslaved individuals who sought refuge in Palmares.

In late 1695, Domingos Jorge Velho, a notorious bandeirante, led military forces against Quilombo dos Palmares. After a series of confrontations, Zumbi was captured and executed. His death underscored the harsh realities of the struggle for freedom, as well as the lengths to which colonial powers would go to eliminate threats to their control. Zumbi's execution did not extinguish the flame of resistance; rather, it ensured his legacy as a martyr for the cause of freedom and human rights in Brazil.

While the immediate effects of Zumbi's death led to the eventual decline of Quilombo dos Palmares, his spirit persisted in the consciousness of later generations. He became a symbol of fight against oppression and has been commemorated as a national hero in Brazil, especially among Afro-Brazilian communities. His legacy continues to inspire movements for civil rights and social justice, making his life and death a cornerstone of Brazilian history related to the struggle against racial inequality.