Getúlio Vargas

getúlio vargas

To the few people who actually do come to my blog. I apologize for the lack of posts for the past month and half. As of late, I feel spread thin and am frustrated with myself due to my habits of trying to do too many things at the same time. This makes reference to my working on getting a mortgage broker license, having three websites to design and program, a basement bathroom to finish, my next film project to write (called Invisible People, coming in Oct), and prepping for the GMAT; all while maintaining my regular balance of family, religion, and my real job.

Excuses aside, this summer has been a tragic one when it comes to loved ones, neighbors, and friends. Death has become an all too familiar theme. I don't wish to unjustly tell the events of those around us, but I do reflect on a story that has fascinated me since my time in Brazil. It refers to the suicide of the Brazilian President, Getúlio Vargas. Coincidently, his untimely end occurred 53 years ago on the same day my sister is getting married (and happens to be her birthday as well), August 24th.

He was president of Brazil from 1930 to 1945 and then re-elected 1951 to 1954. However ambiguous he was during World War II, he made decisions that benefited the people of Brazil. Foreign companies profiting from Brazil's vast resources, saw the threat and succeeded in turning public opinion against him. Protesters reached the steps of the capital demanding his resignation. President Vargas, unable to control the situation, shot himself leaving the now famous "carta testamento". A translated excerpt of the first and last paragraph read:

"Once more the forces and interests that oppose the people have been organized and are unleashed upon me. Rather than accuse me, they insult me; they do not fight me, they vilify me and do not allow me the right to defend myself. They must drown my voice and impede my actions so that I shall not continue to defend the people as I always have, especially the humble...
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...And to those who think they have defeated me, I reply with my victory. I was a slave to the people, and today I free myself for eternal life. But this people, to whom I was slave, will no longer be slave to anyone. My sacrifice will be forever in its soul and my blood will be the price of its ransom. I fought against the exploitation of Brazil. I fought against the exploitation of the people. I have fought with my whole heart. Hatred, infamy and slander have not conquered my spirit. I gave my life to you. Now I offer you my death. I fear nothing. Calmly I take the first step toward eternity and leave life to enter History."