more than just cultural curiosities, these legends play active parts in the lives of cariocas and brazilians at large and provide a shared cultural experience unlike any other in the world. the legend of the negrinho do pastoreio originates in rio grande do sul, but has a continuing resonance across the entire country.

according to the tale, a young slave boy of about 14 was sent to mind the horses of a wealthy land owner. upon his return, the rancher accused the slave of having lost one of his prized horses. after hours of searching, the boy returned without the missing horse.