Capoeira’s heritage endangered by its popularity

Globalization has the ability to blur concepts of national identity (as we mentioned a year ago) and heritage. This is precisely the anxiety in the minds of some Brazilians who worry that the international popularity of capoeira is destroying its traditional heritage steeped in hundreds of years of Brazilian history and culture. Even the country’s government has stepped in and is campaigning to designate capoeira as an “intangible heritage of humanity…meant to preserve cultural traditions needing protection in the face of globalization.”

Capoeira is a form of martial arts dance that is distinguished by acrobatic and fluid movements set to music and chanting. It is absolutely thrilling to watch; a veritable feast for the eyes and soul. Don’t believe me? Then take a close look at this video made by good friend Julie in 2005 on capoeira.

Image- World of Stock

Links- International Herald Tribune, Wikipedia, NYU, The Latin Americanist