Rio de
Janeiro is one of the most eclectic metropolises in the world - a vast and truly
unique mosaic, comprised of a wide range of social, cultural and physical
landscapes. Understanding the city's past is vital in understanding its
exceptional and multi-faceted contemporary identity.
Rio's history follows a fascinating trajectory: ranging from early indigenous
population to Portuguese colonial rule, and from a monarchy to a republic, and
even a civilian-military dictatorship. Throughout its various important epochs, the city
has generated beautiful architecture, arts, culture, music, food, and a vibrant
spirit.
Rio's sea-port made it a region of vital
strategic importance in the trade of sugar, gold and coffee and the state was
hence made capital of the country in 1763 - a title that it retained on and off
for almost two hundred years. The port's position and city's role of capital are
widely considered to be two of the most important factors in the expansion and
evolution of the somewhat unlikely swampy and mountainous region.