Maria Benedita Martins de Oliveira, affectionately called Dona Maria, died of natural causes at the age of 104 on January 12 in Cuiabá, Brazil. She was a lifelong witness to significant historical events, including World War II and the Cold War, and played an active role in the political transformations of her country. Born on May 1, 1921, in Poconé, a town in Mato Grosso state, she stayed connected to her family's political legacy, especially through her son Dante de Oliveira, who was pivotal in the Diretas Já movement, advocating for direct presidential elections in Brazil in 1983.

Dona Maria's pride in her son was evident, as she admired his honesty and dedication to social issues affecting the less fortunate. Her daughter, Ines Oliveira, shared that despite her advanced age, Dona Maria was actively involved in following news about political developments, often engaging in discussions with her son about them. This connection highlights a close-knit familial bond nurtured through shared values and discussions about political engagement, reflecting how personal history intertwines with national politics.

The passing of Dona Maria serves as a poignant reminder of the contributions of women in the political sphere, often overshadowed by direct political figures. Her life story underscores the importance of familial support in political activism and the enduring impact of historical movements, such as Diretas Já, on individual lives. As society reflects on her legacy, it also opens dialogue about the trajectories of political families in Brazil and the historical contexts they navigate.