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Following three centuries under the rule of Portugal, Brazil became an independent nation in 1822 and a republic in 1889.

By far the largest and most populous country in South America, Brazil overcame more than half a century of military intervention in the governance of the country when in 1985 the military regime peacefully ceded power to civilian rulers. Brazil continues to pursue industrial and agricultural growth and development of its interior.

Highly unequal income distribution and crime remain pressing problems. Corruption continues to be a major issue in Brazil with politicians regularly being accused of taking large sums of cash to sell their votes and use their influence.

The relationship between Brazil and Hugo Chaves’ Venezuela also continues to deteriorate, although there is little likelihood of violence.

Exploiting vast natural resources and a large labor pool, it is today South America's leading economic power and a regional leader. . China has become the main destination for Brazil's exports of raw materials, such as iron ore for steel production. Chinese imports from Brazil have climbed steadily after a trough in December. Economic ties are growing. In May, China Development Bank said it would loan $10 billion to oil giant Petrobras, further propelling Brazil’s growth even through the world economic crisis and preparing the ground for this robust country to continue to dominate the South American economy.