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Brazil is a
Catholic country, but in practice the country's religious life
incorporates Indian
animism,
African cults, syncretism and Kardecism, a spiritualist religion
embracing Eastern
mysticism, which is
gaining popularity with Brazilian Whites.
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Brazilian
folklore literature is influenced by European, native and
African traditions. The
folklore has
conserved myths and tales from Africa, mainly under the
religious aspect.
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Although
the most popular rhythm is the "Samba", made known world-wide by
the singer
Carmen
Miranda, the Brazilian music today is represented by the "Bossa
Nova".
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The
Brazilian carnival is the most popular celebration in the whole
world, and the country
really stops for almost a whole week. The period is variable, from February to March,
starting
4 days before
Ash-Wednesday.
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Another
annual celebration that gathers more and more people is the New
Year's Eve
celebration in Rio de Janeiro Copacabana Beach gathers almost a million people. They come
to
the beach to watch the
fireworks while members of afro-related religions deliver their
offerings and gifts to the sea-goddess Yemanj│.
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Embroideries, potteries, ceramic, wood-carvings, dolls are a few
examples of the immense
variety
that can be found at local markets and street fairs. |
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