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Tereza de Benguela is, like other great black women, a name forgotten by national historiography
Black Women’s Day is celebrated on July 25 in Brazil. Abroad, the date is celebrated as Black Women’s Day in Latin America and the Caribbean. The leader of the quilombolas Teresa of Benguela She was a symbol of resistance against slavery in Brazil in the 18th century. However, what is known about her?
Teresa of Benguela
In History there are not many documents about their actions, just as there are few acts of most women of the time. She bravely undertook a difficult mission: she led Quilombo do Quariterê, in Mato Grosso, on the border with Bolivia. Leadership came after her companion, Jose Piolo, he died, murdered by soldiers.
Thus Tereza became the leader of the community.” It was a very special leadership, because not only did she think about the entire strategy of war and resistance, but she was also a fighting warrior.”He says Jacqueline Fernandes, founder of the largest black women’s festival in Latin America, Latinidades. In an interview with Folha de SP, the expert highlights the rigidity with which Tereza ruled the community, severely punishing anyone who disobeyed her.
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The historian Aline Nascimentoin an interview with Folha, he explains this behavior: “This more severe leadership was not only due to the fact that she was a woman, but because she was responsible for an entire defense and articulation structure.”
For sailing on imposing vessels through the rivers of the Pantanal, she became known as “Queen Tereza”. During her term, she coordinated a strong defense apparatus. In addition, she formed a parliament to decide, as a group, the actions of the community.
There are no official documents about how Tereza died. One version says that she committed suicide after being captured by the bandeirantes, around 1770. Finally, another version says that she was murdered and her head was displayed in the center of Quilombo.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
