Feb 15 • 08:00 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil G1 (PT)

Who was Prince Custódio? Portela's storyline, an African leader helped spread Afro religions in the South of the country

The story recalls the life of Custódio Joaquim de Almeida, an African prince who significantly influenced Afro-Brazilian culture in southern Brazil.

Custódio Joaquim de Almeida, also known as Osuanlele Okizi Erupê, was an African prince who passed away in May 1935 at the age of 104, and was recognized by notable newspapers in Porto Alegre as an extraordinary figure ahead of his time. His legacy includes a deep impact on Afro-Brazilian religious practices and cultures, particularly in the region of Rio Grande do Sul. The obituaries celebrating his life highlight his unique position as an African leader who became integral to the local community and its traditions.

The upcoming storyline titled 'The Mystery of the Prince of Bará – the Prayer of the Little Black Boy and the Resurrection of His Crown Under the Open Sky of Rio Grande', which Portela will present at the Marquês de Sapucaí, aims to emphasize Custódio's life and the historical significance of Afro-Brazilian culture. This narrative seeks to challenge stereotypes about the southern region of Brazil, showcasing a character whose contributions often remain overshadowed in mainstream discussions.

Custódio's existence and influence underline the rich tapestry of Afro-Brazilian history, as he played a crucial role in disseminating African religions and cultural practices in southern Brazil during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating diverse cultural legacies within the nation's history, particularly those related to the African diaspora, which continues to shape Brazilian identity today.

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