Dados is one of the most widely-read social sciences journals in Latin America. Created in 1966, it publishes innovative works, originating from academic research, by Brazilian and foreign authors. Edited by IESP-UERJ, it aims to reconcile scientific rigor and academic excellence with an emphasis on public debate based on the analysis of substantive issues of society and politics.
Dados vol. 51 n. 4 Rio de Janeiro 2008
Abstract
This article analyzes the formation of the concept of Federalism in 19th century Brazilian political debate. We seek to understand the transition from the concept of Confederation to that of Federalism and the political values that came to be associated with the latter. Based on the methodology of Conceptual History formulated by Reinhart Koselleck, we focus on the continuities and breaks in the issue of decentralization. Analyzing 19th century newspapers and Parliamentary debates, we contend that the notion of Provincial interest is a key aspect for understanding the Federalist thinking formulated in the first half of the 19th century.
Keywords: federalism, confederation, Brazilian political thinking, nation-building, Judiciary
DOI: 10.1590/S0011-52582008000400005
The concept of federalism and the notion of interest in 19th century Brazil