Brasília is officially inaugurated as Brazil's capital

April 21st, 1960

April 21st, 1960

Brasília is officially inaugurated as Brazil's capital
How Long Ago?

64 years, 10 months, 22 days ago

Location

Brasília, Brazil

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Juscelino Kubitschek
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Brasília is officially inaugurated as Brazil's capital

At 09:30, the new capital of Brazil, Brasília, is officially inaugurated, marking a significant shift from the previous capital, Rio de Janeiro. This ceremony sees the transfer of power for the Three Powers of the Republic: the Executive, Legislative, and Judiciary. The creation of Brasília was aimed at promoting the development of the interior of Brazil and reducing the concentration of political and economic power along the coastal regions.

Brasília designed by Oscar Niemeyer and Lúcio Costa.

Inauguration at 09:30 with all Three Powers present.

New capital aimed at regional development and equality.

Cultural events marked the city's official opening.

What Happened?

The inauguration of Brasília as Brazil's new capital represented a groundbreaking transformation in the country's political landscape. The city was designed by the acclaimed architect Oscar Niemeyer, along with urban planner Lúcio Costa, and was envisioned as a means to encourage migration to the interior of Brazil while holding significant symbolic importance for the nation’s modernity. The planned capital was officially inaugurated at 09:30, when the Three Powers of the Republic were ceremoniously transferred from Rio de Janeiro. This included the President’s office, the National Congress, and the Supreme Court moving their functions to the new location, which was specifically designed to represent the future of Brazil.

Brasília was strategically positioned at the geographical center of Brazil, meant to foster growth and development in a region that had previously been relatively underdeveloped. The inauguration festivities featured a wide variety of cultural displays and brought together government officials, diplomats, and citizens, all coming to witness this significant moment in Brazilian history. The newly formed capital was characterized by modernist architecture, vast public spaces, and ambitious urban planning that sought to reflect ideals of equality and accessibility.

The new city was not only an emblem of national progress but also a symbol of the government's commitment to integrate the nation more fully into the 20th century. Over time, Brasília's architecture and urban layout gained international recognition, and the city became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. The ceremony was broadcasted nationwide, marking a pivotal moment that highlighted the country’s aspirations and the critical transition towards modernity in the post-war era.

Why Does it Matter?

The inauguration of Brasília is intriguing because it symbolized a bold shift in Brazil's approach to urban planning and governance. The creation of the capital in the interior was aimed at promoting regional development, addressing socio-economic disparities, and reducing coastal dominance. The city became a model for modernist architecture and urban planning, influencing other cities worldwide.

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