capoeira is a traditional hand to hand combat style martial art, created and cultivated solely in brazil, namely rio de janeiro and recife, independently from any eastern influences.

during the portuguese colonization of brazil in the 16th century, slaves were brought over from africa to increase the work force that was needed to increase colonized territory - although talk of a revolt was common, the lack of weapons made the practicality of it unlikely - from these harsh conditions, capoeira was born.

the slaves needed a combat style they could use to rise up against their masters, but were not allowed to possess weapons or practice fighting.