Brazil

Centripetal/Centrifugal Forces

A centripetal force in Brazil is it's Independence Day which is on September 7th.  This day celebrates the day the country gained independence from Portugal.

Another centripetal force is religion.  90% of Brazil practices Christianity.  Brazil's most treasured landmark is "Christ the Redeemer" in Rio de Janeiro.

A centrifugal force in Brazil was the loss of the World Cup to Germany.  Riots broke out on the streets of Brazil.  People were murdered and property was damaged.

Nation-State

Brazil is considered to be a nation state.  The citizens identify themselves as Brazilians annd share a common language, which is Portuguese.  The culture, however, is quite diverse because the country is made up of immigrants from all over the world.

Government

Brazil has a democratic federative republic.  The president is head of state and head of government of the union and serves a four-year term.  The president appoints Ministers of State, who assist in government.  Legislative houses in each political entitiy are the main source of law in Brazil.  Brazil is a democracy according to the Democracy Index 2010.

Core or Periphery

Brazil is considered semi-periphery.  This means that it has a higher level of autonomy and has been the object of significant improvements in economic development.

ref: people.hofstra.edu

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