60 years since the 1964 coup in Brazil | Interview with Tatyana de Amaral Maia

Abstract

Tatyana de Amaral Maia, a History professor, emphasizes the importance of understanding the 1964 coup as a civil-military event supported by diverse sectors, including the military, conservative politicians, and the economic elite. Current historiography reflects debates about the reasons for the coup, including the politicization of anti-communism and support from the United States, highlighting that the resulting dictatorship promoted widespread violence and censorship. The transition to democracy was negotiated, limiting Transitional Justice and perpetuating impunity, especially through the maintenance of the Amnesty Law. Growing criticism of the transition model has fueled denialism that minimizes the impacts of the dictatorship, reflected in the increase in militarization and the presence of the Armed Forces in politics. The political crisis since 2013 has increased the influence of the far right, transforming public narratives. She emphasizes that the authoritarian culture, still present in public spheres, threatens democratic ideals and social justice, highlighting the need for historians to engage in democracy. The current context, with a conservative Congress and economic challenges, demands care in preserving and strengthening democracy, especially in a year of municipal elections that are crucial for the country's political future.