Brazil is the largest country in South America, located in its central and eastern parts. The length of the land borders is about 16 thousand km, in the east, for 7.4 thousand km, the country is washed by the Atlantic. Area - 8.5 million square meters. km. According to the US Census Bureau, the population in 1999 was 171,853 thousand people. Currently, Brazil is a federal republic, administratively divided into 23 states, 3 territories and a federal district. The capital is Brasilia. Monetary unit - real. The official language is Portuguese.

Characterized by a large and well-developed agriculture, mining, manufacturing and service sector, Brazil's economy outperforms that of all other South American countries and is expanding its presence in world markets. Since 2003, Brazil has steadily improved its macroeconomic stability by building foreign exchange reserves and reducing debt. In 2008, Brazil became a net external creditor and the Brazilian economy was given investment status by two rating agencies. After record growth in 2007 and 2008, the onset of the global financial crisis hit the country's economy in September 2008. Brazil experienced two quarters of decline as global demand for Brazilian goods declined and external lending declined.

However, Brazil was one of the first developing countries to start a recovery. Consumption and investor confidence recovered and GDP growth turned positive in 2010. The recovery of exports had a positive effect on economic growth.

Currently, strong growth in Brazil and high interest rates have made the country's economy attractive to foreign investors. Large capital inflows in 2010 contributed to the rapid appreciation of the local currency and forced the government to raise taxes on some foreign investment. President Dilma Rousseff pledged to remain committed to the previous administration's central bank inflation targeting, floating exchange rates and fiscal restraint policies.

History of the Brazilian economy

Until the mid-1990s, Brazil experienced very high inflation and foreign investors were afraid to invest in the national economy. But with the introduction of a strict monetary policy in the country, the country corrected its situation: the rise in prices for consumer goods in 1998 amounted to 2% against 1000% in 1994. But at the same time, GDP growth decreased from 5.7 percent in 1994 to 3% in 1997 due to a tighter credit policy.

In 1998 the country's economy is facing a serious test: the global financial crisis has led to an outflow of investment from the country. Approximately 30 billion dollars was spent in August and September 1998. The most serious consequence for Brazil, after the Russian refusal to pay its debts, was the decision to change the annual interest rate (it reached 50%). After adjusting the tax program and adopting new principles of structural transformation, the International Monetary Fund issued loans to the country in the amount of 41.5 billion dollars. In January 1999, the Central Bank of Brazil announced a one-time 8% devaluation of the real and a refusal to further artificially support the national currency. The government of the country hoped for the beginning of economic growth by the end of 1999. and declared its adherence to a strict anti-inflationary course. Even though in 1999 in the country there was a currency crisis, the country's economy, despite this, by the end of 1999. nevertheless increased. Since the end of 1999, since the end of 1999, about 20 billion dollars of investments have been invested in the country's economy after the issuance of an IMF loan.

Between 1995 and 1998 there was a decline in almost all industries in Brazil (from 7.6% to -2.3% in total), especially in engineering (from 21.4% to -4.1%), energy (from 19.0% to -10 .1%) and transportation (from 13.4% to -15.1%).

But by 2000, the world's leading economists were seeing the growth of the Brazilian economy. For example, overall production growth (but data for March 2001) amounted to 11.2% from January 2000, while analysts had expected 6.8%. Combined with strong output, there has been a better-than-expected drop in unemployment and a surprisingly large trade deficit recorded in early 2001.

The hot period of economic activity has led to the fact that imports began to develop at a faster pace than exports, despite the fact that the devaluation helps to increase the competitiveness of Brazilian products. Between January and February, exports rose 13.8% to $8.62 billion, while imports rose 18.6% to $9.02 billion.

Many media said that with such a growth rate, the Brazilian economy would "overheat", but the country adapted to the fast-growing economy precisely through imports, and not through rising prices, as previously assumed. In 2000, the Central Bank cut interest rates from 45% to 15.25%, in the hope that the economy would continue to respond to the rate cut cycle over the past two years.

Brazil's GNP in 1998 was $767,578 million. Brazil's GDP in 1998 was $778,209 million. At the end of 1999, the decline in Brazil's GDP did not exceed 2%, despite the expected 3.8%.

Exports in 1998 amounted to 51 billion dollars and consisted of iron ore, coffee, soybeans, oranges, cars, aircraft, weapons. Exporting countries: EEC - 28%, Latin America (excluding Argentina) - 28%, USA - 20%, Argentina - 13%. Imports in 1998 amounted to 57.6 billion dollars and consisted of crude oil, machinery and equipment, and food products. Importing countries: EEC - 26%, USA - 22%, Argentina - 13%, Japan - 5%.

However, in subsequent years, Brazil was waiting for a new period of frankly weak economic development. The government of Luis Inacio Lula da Silva failed to contain the growth of domestic debt, which has long been more than half of GDP, despite a policy of lowering bank interest rates. Bank interest rates that attracted speculative short-term capital to Brazil remained the highest in the world at 14.25%. So far, economic growth has been restrained by the devaluation of the local currency, the real, whose exchange rate was artificially maintained at a level of 30% below the real one against the US dollar, which naturally restrained production growth and made exports expensive.

The pace of development of the Brazilian economy in 2006-2007 remained below the global level - such a conclusion is contained in the report of the International Monetary Fund.

In December 2008, the President of Brazil signed a decree on the formation of a "sovereign wealth fund" in the amount of up to $ 6 billion, financed by a state budget surplus (up to 3.8% of GDP). The purpose of the fund is to provide investment for Brazilian companies in the face of the collapse of external sources of credit.

Relative change in GDP by years: +5.1% (2008); -0.2% (2009); +7.5% (2010). In 2010, the volume of GDP amounted to 2.023 trillion. dollars (2182 trillion dollars at PPP). GDP per capita reached $11,220 ($11,514 PPP). The inflation rate was 4.5% and the unemployment rate was 5.7%.

Brazilian industry

Brazil is one of the key countries in the developing world. In terms of GDP, it ranks first in Latin America, and in terms of industrial production, it is among the ten largest countries in the world. The share of industry in GDP is 26.4%, and agriculture - 6.1%. Industry employs 14% of the workforce. Brazil has large reserves of minerals: iron (over 100 billion tons), manganese (100 million tons), uranium (256 thousand tons) ores, coal (21 billion tons), oil, etc.

Brazil industrial production growth rate, % to the previous year

Mining industry. Despite the rapid development and rich resource base of Brazil, the share of this industry in GDP is small. The extraction of apatite and iron ore is highly developed there, as well as the extraction of gold, silver, tin, diamonds and asbestos. The iron ore industry works to a large extent for export.

More than 40 types of minerals are mined in Brazil. The most significant are iron and manganese ores. More than 200 million tons of iron ore are mined per year, approximately 80% is exported. Brazil occupies one of the first places in the world in terms of bauxite mining. Zinc, copper and nickel are mined for the domestic market. Brazil is a supplier of strategic raw materials: tungsten, niobium, zirconium, mica, etc. Brazil provides only half of its oil needs and is forced to import it. The annual demand for oil is 75 million tons. In the 1970s, significant reserves of gold were found in the Amazon, and now its production is about 80 tons per year. Coal deposits have been found, but the coal is of low quality and its production is about 5 million tons per year. The most developed production of aluminum on its own bauxites, as well as nickel and copper.

Energy. Up to 90% of the country's electricity is produced by hydroelectric power plants, alternative sources are also used (most of the cars run on alcohol), firewood, coal, and one nuclear power plant. Ferrous metallurgy. operates on its own ore and imported coke. The country is one of the ten world steel producers (smelting - 25 million tons). The largest factories are located in the states of Minas Gerai and Sao Paulo.

Brazil has a huge hydropower potential. Energy is 99% based on hydropower. Brazil has the second largest hydroelectric power station in the world - Itaipu. In 2005, 546 billion kWh were generated. Brazil exported 7 million kWh of electricity and imported 39 billion kWh, mostly from Paraguay. In 2007, 438.8 billion kWh were generated, 404.3 billion kWh were consumed, and 2.034 billion kWh were exported. Electricity import in 2008 - 42.06 billion kWh (mainly from Paraguay).

Manufacturing industry. The manufacturing industry occupies over a quarter of the GDP. The main industries are oil refining and the chemical industry. Developed - transport engineering (primarily automotive), machine tool building. The country ranks fourth in the world in the construction of sea vessels, and the success of the aircraft industry is noticeable. The radio hardware structure has been developed, and the production of electronic computers is developing at a rapid pace. The main centers of the industry are Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.

Brazil produces more than 1.5 million cars annually. The main car manufacturers in the country are Scania, Mercedes-Benz and Fiat. The main manufacturer of buses is Mercedes-Benz.

Agriculture in Brazil

Agriculture in Brazil employs 20% of the labor force. In terms of exports of agricultural products, Brazil is in third place in the world, its share in world exports of these products is 6.1%. The share of agricultural products in Brazil's exports reaches almost a third. In the structure of the industry, crop production is leading (60% of the value of all products), and in the course of the evolution of land use and land tenure systems, the institution of large land ownership - latifundia (80% of all cultivated land) has developed. In addition, small landownership - minifundia - is widespread. Although the proportion of the latter is small, it is they who produce the bulk of food (and not export, as on latifundia plantations) crops for domestic consumption: cereals, legumes, potatoes. Brazil is a traditional producer and exporter of a number of agricultural products: coffee, sugar cane, soybeans, corn, cocoa, bananas, cotton, as well as a significant number of cattle.

In the north of Brazil there are huge forest areas of the Amazon, occupying 60% of the entire territory of the country. But stocks of valuable tree species are used unconventionally and poorly. Of greatest importance is the collection of rubber, the harvesting of nuts and medicinal plants.

Coffee is one of Brazil's main exports. In 2008, 2790.8 million tons of coffee were harvested, thus Brazil is in first place in the world in this indicator. By its production, Brazil is on the 1st place in the world. Brazil ranks 1st in the world in the production of sugar cane, from which ethanol is made, used mainly as a fuel for cars. In 2008, 648 million tons were harvested. Cocoa beans (208 thousand tons), cotton (3.9 million tons) and soybeans (59.9 million tons) are also grown.

Brazil's main consumer crops are wheat, corn and rice. In 2008 it was harvested: corn - 59 million tons (two crops are being harvested), rice - 12 million tons, wheat - 5 million tons.

Livestock in Brazil is predominantly meat, it provides about 40% of the value of agricultural products. Pasture cattle breeding predominates, as well as beef cattle breeding in combination with vegetable growing. Animal husbandry is most common in the Central-West of the country. In 2002, there were 176 million cattle, 30 million pigs, 1,050 million poultry and 15 million sheep in the country.

Brazil transport

Transport in Brazil is developed extremely unevenly, railways are mainly located in the east of the country. Transport highways (at first, railways) began to form in the 19th century. And now, new and modernized railway lines mainly connect mining centers and agricultural production areas with ports. The length of railways is 29,252 km, including 487 km with a wide gauge, 194 km with a standard gauge, 23,785 km with a narrow gauge, and 396 km with the rest.

The length of motor roads is 1.98 million km. (of which with a hard surface - 184,140 km.). Highways, although they are the longest in all of Latin America and carry most of the passengers, do not meet the needs of the country, moreover, they are unevenly distributed throughout the country. Maritime (98% of all foreign trade cargo) and air transport play an exceptional role in the development of foreign trade relations.

Airports: total - 4276, with hard surface - 714, without hard surface - 3562. Water transport: total - 137 vessels with a displacement of 2,038,923 gt / 3,057,820 dwt, dry cargo ships - 21, oil tankers - 47, chemical tankers - 8, gas tankers - 12, passenger - 12, container - 8, bulk carriers - 21, ro-ro - 8.

The role of Brazil in the world economy

The Brazilian economy, having a highly developed agriculture, mining industry (it ranks first in the world in the extraction of iron ore, apatite, the second - in the extraction of beryllium, the third - in the extraction of bauxite, the fourth - in the extraction of gold, asbestos, tin) and the service sector, is the most powerful in the region and has a significant impact on world markets. Brazil is the world's largest producer of coffee and sugar cane, and one of the largest exporters of agricultural products.

Despite the inexpressive indicators of economic development, Brazil claims to be the world leader in developing countries. A new confirmation of the government's claims to leadership among the third world countries was the intention to form a bloc of countries at the upcoming IMF forum in order to block the IMF reform project, which would give China, South Korea, Turkey and Mexico more rights in making decisions of the international financial body. The volume of exports in 2010 amounted to 199.7 billion US dollars, and imports - 187.7 billion US dollars. Exports are transport equipment, iron ore, soybeans, footwear, coffee, automobiles. Export partners China 12.49%, USA 10.5%, Argentina 8.4%, Netherlands 5.39%, Germany 4.05% (for 2009). Imports - machinery, electrical and transport equipment, chemicals, petroleum, automotive parts, electronics. Import partners USA 16.12%, China 12.61%, Argentina 8.77%, Germany 7.65%, Japan 4.3% (for 2009).

Main questions. What are the features of Brazil in terms of age and ethnic composition of the population? What is the level of economic development of the country?

Geographical position. Brazil is a giant country. It occupies almost half the area of ​​the continent: territory takes fifth place in the world (8.5 million sq. km). In the only country discovered by the Portuguese, the famous paul brazil mahogany grew; hence the name of the country.

Nature Brazil is fabulous and unique. On a vast territory - the equatorial forest plains of the Amazon, the tropical landscapes of the Brazilian plateau. (Study maps for relief, minerals, climatic features, rivers, the location of natural areas.). The Amazon and its tributaries play a big role in the life of the country. The central part of the Brazilian Plateau is characterized by typical savannahs. Mined in the West sedimentary minerals: oil, brown coal. In the eastern part in the mountains lie ore minerals. The Brazilian Plateau is one of the unique regions of the world in terms of reserves and diversity of minerals. Due to the presence of deposits of high-quality iron, manganese, nickel ores, it is called the "iron heart" of the country. Precious and semi-precious stones - emeralds, sapphires, amethysts, garnets - the wealth of this region.

Population. Brazil is one of the top five countries in the world in terms of population. 188 million people. Nearly half of the population inhabits only about7% territory of the country, a narrow strip of the Atlantic coast. Average population density -20 man on1 sq. km, in the southeast - about80, in the north -3 person. ( Make an analysis of the "Population Density" map)

Brazil is characterized by high natural population growth. A complex process of urbanization is developing rapidly. The resettlement of peasants in the cities, the development of "false urbanization" has become one of the main problems of Brazil. Near 40% of peoplelive below the poverty line and20% live in poverty.

Brazil is a typical example of a complex ethnic composition mainland population. Over95% of the country's population are Brazilians, a racially diverse nation that includes whites(53,7%), black people(6,2%), mulattos(38,5%), mestizo, sambo. The culture of modern Brazil is a fusion of Portuguese, Indian and African components. The bulk of people are employed in industry, the service sector, somewhat less in agriculture. (Fig. 2)

Industry defines the face of a country. Brazil is characterized by an industrial boom. The country ranks second in the world in terms of mining and first in iron ore exports, and third in bauxite mining. In the coastal zones of Rio de Janeiro, not far from the main industrial centers, oil and iron ore deposits have been discovered (Carajas), bauxite (Trombetas). Aluminum production required a significant increase in electricity generation, which led to the construction of cheap hydroelectric power plants. In the basin of the La Plata river, hydroelectric power stations were built: Itaipu- the largest in the world. Significant reserves of uranium ores contributed to the construction of the first Brazilian nuclear power plant"Angra-1" in the Rio de Janeiro area.

Brazil is one of the "key countries" of the developing world, one of its leaders. In terms of total GDP, it ranks first among all developing countries. Industry is the leading industry in Brazil, accounting for more than 35% of GDP. The largest area of ​​industrial development in Brazil is "Greater Carajas". Its core is an open pit, where 100 thousand tons of iron ore are mined per day. The industrial structure of Brazil is dominated by heavy industries: ferrous metallurgy and mechanical engineering ( Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Sorocaba, Ouro Preto). Brazil is among the top five countries in the world in the production of ships, tractors, televisions, cotton fabrics. She has been successful in the development of the automotive industry, aircraft manufacturing, shipbuilding, as well as in the development of electronics and computer science. In the first of the Latin American countries, an artificial satellite of the Earth was created here. In terms of computer production, Brazil is second only to the United States, Japan and Germany. (Study the map of large industrial centers, the main areas of agricultural development.)

Agriculture supplies 95% of the country's food needs. Brazil ranks first in the world in the production of coffee, orange juice, sugar, is among the top five countries in the collection of soybeans, cocoa, in terms of cattle and pigs. (Fig. 5) Almost a third of the population is employed in agriculture. Agriculture is a fairly developed and significant sector of the economy.

Brazil's main task is to develop the interior regions of the country.

leading view transport is automobile (80% of cargo turnover). The length of railways is about 30 thousand km, automobile roads - about 2 million km. (Fig. 6) The Trans-Amazon highway crosses an area 5.4 thousand km long. Large length of inland waterways, navigable at any time of the year. Foreign economic relations. An important source of income for the country is still the export of precious wood, natural and instant coffee, cocoa, rubber, and medicinal plants. The main trading partners of Brazil are the USA, countries of Western Europe, Latin America, and the Netherlands. The problem of its external debt is exceptionally acute for the country.

Cities. Sao Paulo- "economic capital" of the country, forming a large agglomeration with a population of more than 32 million inhabitants. The state of São Paulo provides about 2/3 of the country's total industrial production. Rio de Janeiro ("River of January") - one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It is home to 13 million people. It is said that Sao Paulo is a city where people mainly make a living, and Rio de Janeiro is a place where they mainly enjoy life. . (fig 3) Brasilia due to the boldness of architectural forms and the use of the latest solutions in construction, it is a city of the 20th century that has become a symbol of national pride. The project of the capital was developed by the outstanding Brazilian architects L. Costa and O. Niemeyer. The buildings built here blend well with the terrain. The appearance of Brasilia is so original that UNESCO has included the city in the World Heritage List of mankind.

Brazil is one of the largest countries in the world in terms of area and population. The age structure is dominated by the young population. The ethnic composition of the population is very complex. Brazil is the leader of South America in terms of economic development.

1. Describe the distinctive features of the state of Brazil. 2. How did the history of the settlement of the mainland affect the culture of Brazil. **4. Study the chart in the textbook "GDP per capita in Brazil". Compare the same figure in Australia. Make a conclusion.

WE GENERALIZE

1. Draw objects on the contour map that characterize the geographical location of South America and Africa (from memory). 2. What cultivated plants are native to Africa and South America? 3. Compare the use of rivers in the lives of people in Africa, Australia, South America. 4. On which continent, in Africa or South America, culture was formed to a greater extent under the influence of the cultures of other peoples? Why? *5. What structural changes in the age composition of the population have a special impact on the development of the economies of countries? *6. Why does South America have the longest mountain range, while there are no large mountain ranges in Africa? **7. What is the role of mineral resources in the development of industry, and natural conditions - in the development of agriculture in Australia, Africa, South America? **eight. Compare the environmental problems of the continents of the Southern Hemisphere. What are the similarities and differences? Why? **9. Compare the role and place of the economies of Australia, Africa and South America in the world economy. **10. Prove that the expression "Brazilian miracle" is justified. Can the same be said about the development of the economy in African countries? **eleven. Imagine that you have the opportunity to solve environmental problems in one of the countries of Australia, Africa, South America. Which country will you go to, what will you do? **12. Think about what areas of cooperation between Belarus and the countries of Africa, South America, Australia you can offer?

North America

Leading tasks 1. Pick up information about the culture of the peoples who inhabited the mainland before its discovery by Europeans. 2. Collect additional material about the largest states of North America: features of nature, population, economic activity. 3. Using additional literature, describe the most famous protected natural areas located on the mainland of North America (of your choice).

North America, unlike its neighbor - South America, does not have a large number of natural objects that claim to be the largest on our planet. Such objects include, perhaps, the largest cluster of freshwater lakes on Earth with the largest lake in terms of area - about. The top and largest karst cave on Earth - Mammoth. However, it was from this mainland that European colonization began. new world (a territory outside Eurasia and Africa), and it was here that the state with the most developed and powerful economy in the world, the United States, was formed.

(without microstates)

2. The country ranks first in the world in terms of oil reserves.

3. The country ranks first in the world in terms of irrigated land.

4. A mainland country that is part of the Commonwealth.

1) China; 2) India; 3) Sri Lanka; 4) Iraq.
7. The largest sub-region of Foreign Asia in terms of area is:
1) Central and East Asia;
2) Southeast Asia;
3) South Asia;
4) Southwest Asia.
8. What is the most densely populated part of China:
1) northern; 2) eastern; 3) south; 4) western.
9. China ranks first in the world in the production of:
1) electricity and steel;
2) steel and cotton fabrics;
3) cotton fabrics and mineral fertilizers;
4) mineral fertilizers and electricity.
10. Megalopolis Tokaido is located in Japan on:
1) the north of the country;
2) the south of the country;
3) west coast;
4) east coast.
11. There are practically no modes of transport in Japan:
1) railway and road;
2) automobile and pipeline;
3) pipeline and river;
4) river and railway.
12. Specify the largest city (urban agglomeration) of India:
1) Delhi; 2) Calcutta; 3) Bombay; 4) Madras.
13. The main wheat growing area is located in India at:
1) north; 2) east; 3) south; 4) west.
14. Indicate the country of Foreign Asia, which has the highest economic growth rates:
1) Japan;
2) Malaysia;
3) China;
4) Singapore.
15. Which countries of Foreign Asia are not included in OPEC:
1) Kuwait, Saudi Arabia;
2) Indonesia, UAE;
3) China, Philippines;
4) Iran, Qatar.
You are welcome!!! I really need it!!! Thank you!!!

b) Ukraine

c) Germany

d) Great Britain.

2. The basis of the industry of the countries of Western Europe are:

a) mining industry

b) production of mineral fertilizers

c) copper smelting

d) mechanical engineering.

3. Of the listed countries, the European Union includes:

a) Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro

b) Belarus, Moldova, Ukraine,

c) Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia

d) Albania, Croatia.

4. The following specializes in the cultivation of barley and hops:

a) Germany

b) the Netherlands

c) France

d) Italy.

5. The largest share of Russian export products falls on:

a) fuel and energy raw materials

b) engineering products

d) food.

6. Crop production is the leading branch of agriculture:

a) Germany

b) Italy

In Great Britain

d) Switzerland.

a) Spain

b) Ukraine

c) France

d) Poland.

8. The population of most European countries is characterized by:

a) the first type of reproduction, high population density and urbanization

b) the second type of reproduction, high population density

c) the first type of reproduction, low level of urbanization

d) the second type of reproduction, low population density and urbanization.

9. Of the listed countries outside the European Union:

a) Norway, Iceland

b) Germany, France

c) Sweden, Ireland

d) Slovakia, Slovenia.

10. Potato is the main export crop:

a) Ukraine

b) Germany

c) Romania

d) Belarus.

11. The largest share of export products of Moldova falls on:

a) chemicals

b) engineering products

c) agricultural products

d) fish and canned fish.

12. The largest share of electricity generated at nuclear power plants in

a) Poland

b) Norway

c) Iceland

d) France.

13. Determine the correctness of the above statement: "Specialists define the demographic situation in Russia as a crisis due to a natural decrease in the population."

14. Determine the correctness of the above statement: "France ranks first in the world in terms of the number of foreign tourists visiting the country annually."

15. Read the text and determine which European country we are talking about: “This is a country of volcanoes, geysers and glaciers. Even the name of the country in translation means "ice country".

16. Read the text and determine the name of one of the European capitals: “This is one of the largest financial, commercial and cultural centers not only in Europe, but throughout the world. The city is often referred to as the "Venice of the North". Literally, the name of the city is translated as "dam on the river Amstel".

17. Establish a correspondence between seaports and countries:

a) Liverpool, Glasgow, Bristol

b) Rostock, Wismar, Lübeck, Kiel

c) Gdansk, Gdynia, Szczecin

d) Barcelona, ​​Valencia, Tarragona.

1) Poland;

2) Germany;

3) the Netherlands;

4) UK;

5) Spain.

18. Establish a correspondence between tourism centers and countries:

a) Yaroslavl, Zagorsk, Kostroma

b) Krakow, Sopot, Zielona Gora

c) Karlovy Vary, Prague

d) Zurich, Geneva.

1) France;

2) Russia;

3) Poland;

4) Switzerland;

19. Set the sequence of countries by area, starting with the largest:

a) Estonia

b) Andorra

c) Romania

d) France.

Indicate those of the listed countries that:
1) have access to the Pacific Ocean;
3) have no access to the sea;
2) have access to the Indian Ocean;
4) have a form of government monarchy. Specify the countries that export:
5) oil;
7) cotton;
6) iron ore;
8) cars;
9) electronic industry products.

Select the country whose capital is:
10) Canberra;
12) Hanoi;
11) Kathmandu;
13) Bangkok.

Indicate the countries that, according to the level of economic development, belong to the group:
14) oil exporting countries;
15) newly industrialized countries; Indicate the country that:
16) came out on top in the world in the production of televisions;
17) ranks first in the world in terms of the share of spending on science;
18) produces the most bauxite in the world. Indicate the countries that:
19) are among the ten largest countries in the world in terms of population;
20) are centers of migration;
21) have a land border with Russia:
22) belong to the region of subtropical agriculture.

Brief information about the country

Date of Independence

Official language

Portuguese

Form of government

Federal Republic

Territory

8,514,877 km² (5th in the world)

Population

201 009 622 people (5th in the world)

Brasilia

Time Zones

Largest cities

Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, Belo Horizonte, Fortaleza, Brasilia

$2.181 trillion (7th in the world)

Internet domain

Telephone code

- one of the most attractive states of the South American continent in terms of tourism. Luxurious beaches with the purest golden sand and clear ocean water, the impenetrable wilds of the mysterious Amazon, the roar of waterfalls, the world-famous Brazilian carnival - hardly any other country can boast of such a set of miracles. And if we add to this list the delicate aroma of local coffee and imagine a passionate Brazilian woman performing samba, it becomes clear why every year millions of guests from all over the world strive to visit these amazing places.

Video: Brazil

Cities of Brazil

All cities in Brazil

Basic moments

Brazil is the largest country in South America. In terms of area, the republic occupies about 5.7% of the entire land surface on the planet, and in terms of population it is in the top five in the world. The capital is the city of Brasilia. And although for many this country evokes associations exclusively with national entertainment - a grandiose carnival that precedes Lent, the flow of travelers does not dry out all year round.

Nature lovers in Brazil are given the opportunity to see the Amazon rainforest, Iguazu Falls, wetland and dunes in the Northeast region. Fans of a relatively new direction, agro-tourism, tend to visit plantations where they grow coffee, sugar cane, tobacco and citrus fruits. Both of them will have a great time on the beaches of Santa Catarina and will be able to visit the “crystal childhood dream” of the great schemer Ostap Bender - the crowded and unique Rio de Janeiro. You will definitely not be left indifferent by the original culture and vibrant national cuisine, which were formed under the influence of Indian traditions and features brought to their new homeland by immigrants from Europe and Africa.

Being in the center of South America, Brazil has common borders with all the countries of this mainland, with the exception of Ecuador and Chile. An interesting fact is that the length of the territory both from north to south and from west to east is almost the same - 4320 km against 4328 km. The length of the coastline is almost 7.5 thousand kilometers. In addition to the continental lands, Brazil owns several archipelagos in the South Atlantic.

Organized on a federal basis, the state includes 26 states plus the metropolitan area. Each of the administrative divisions of Brazil is endowed with fairly broad powers in both the legislative and executive fields. In addition, there is a division into larger territorial units - regions, of which there are five.

190 million Brazilians today speak 175 languages. Yes, yes, this is the correct figure, and a few centuries ago there were a good hundred more of them, imagine! How do descendants of immigrants and natives communicate with each other? Brazil, for historical reasons, is the only state in the Americas where Portuguese has become the official language: it is spoken in schools, various institutions, on radio and television. The titular religion in the country is Catholicism. In July 2013, it even hosted a Christian gathering from all over the world, and in honor of World Youth Day, the visit of Pope Francis (by the way, he himself comes from neighboring Argentina) took place.

The national character of the Brazilian can be described as follows: sentimentality, warmth, poetry, delicacy. But if you do not show due respect and attention to your new friend, for example, refuse to sit with him in a restaurant for the sole reason that you have an important business meeting, you will lose his friendship. The law for the unconditional abolition of slavery in Brazil was only passed a little over 100 years ago, in 1888. Until now, Brazilians are always ready to remind: “You are not a colony here!” – demanding that they be treated with respect.

History of Brazil

The navigator Pedro Alvares Cabral, who discovered these territories in 1500, originally called them the Land of the True Cross, after some time the name was transformed into the Land of the Holy Cross. Much later, the modern Terra do Brasil (Brazil) appeared. Of course, over the years it is impossible to find out what exactly caused the name change, but historians have an assumption. Huge tracts of a special forest were discovered on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, which began to be actively exported to the metropolis. In terms of its properties, the material was very reminiscent of the famous red wood, which was delivered to local markets by Arab traders. It was called pau-brazil in Portugal. This tree was used to produce expensive furniture, musical instruments and even paints.

The colonialists felt that they managed to find exactly the place where the merchants took such a valuable product. And although the conclusion was erroneous (Brazil actually grows in Southeast Asia), the word has become firmly established in everyday life. Other researchers tend to associate the emergence of the modern name with the "island of the blessed" Brazil, which is mentioned in Irish mythology and was even put on geographical maps in the Early Middle Ages. This place, which according to legend served as a haven for monks and other people marked by God's grace, was hidden from prying eyes by thick fog, but numerous sailors made attempts to discover the mysterious land.

Be that as it may, almost from the moment of its discovery to the Old World until 1822, Brazil was a colony of Portugal, which regularly supplied valuable timber, coffee, sugar cane and gold to the metropolis. From the outside, mainly African slaves were brought here, whose descendants today make up a significant part of the population. Slavery in the then independent republic was abolished only in 1888. Around the same time, a stream of immigrants from Europe poured onto the shores of South America, looking for an opportunity to build a better life for themselves and their children on land across the ocean. It is significant that new arrivals from a particular country tried to settle compactly, on one territory, and these communities still differ quite clearly from each other to this day.

The relief and climate of Brazil

The relief is not uniform. The lowland in the basin of the largest and most full-flowing river on the planet - the Amazon - occupies a significant part of northern Brazil. By the way, this territory has the status of the largest lowland in the world and at the same time is considered the least populated and developed by man lands. The south and east of the country are highlands: the vast Brazilian and the Guiana separated from the main massif by the Amazon. The narrow Atlantic Plain at the junction with the ocean forms beaches, lagoons and natural harbors.

The climate of Brazil can be safely classified as hot. It varies significantly in different regions, since the territory of the state covers several zones at once: equatorial, semi-arid, subtropical and tropical. Within the framework of the latter, the tropical proper, tropical Atlantic and tropical high zones are additionally distinguished. From January to May, temperatures are moderately high (up to 18-20ºС at night and 27-30ºС during the day), and precipitation is frequent (up to 17 rainy days per month). But from June to December it gets hotter (up to + 32-34 degrees during the day), the weather is dry. Of course, in mountainous areas, the figures are much lower, frosts are possible closer to the peaks, but in general, Brazil is favorable for travel at any time of the year.

“Carnival is the most Brazilian thing in all of Brazil,” wrote V. Bobrov in the book “1001 Days in Rio de Janeiro”. And in fact - crazy fun, a riot of colors, extraordinary people, their spectacular clothes, songs and dances delight.

Every year at the end of February, all of Brazil, captured by the continuous thunder of drums beating the rhythm of incendiary samba, plunges into the noisiest, brightest and most cheerful holiday, the grandest show on the planet - carnival. Its origins lie in the ritual dances of Black Africa, whose pulsating rhythms, coinciding with the beats of the heart, were brought to Brazil along with millions of black slaves and slaves. And now, for five days, samba penetrates the blood of all participants and guests of the carnival, for five days Brazil becomes an African country.

At the epicenter of the Brazilian carnival - Rio de Janeiro and El Salvador - planes daily deliver thousands of tourists from the USA, Argentina, European countries ... El Salvador usually receives 600-700 thousand foreigners, Rio - about a million. Hotels are overcrowded, despite skyrocketing prices - places must be booked in advance.

The carnival begins, as a rule, far from Rio de Janeiro, in the town of Olinde, where the parade of the oldest dance school of "virgins" takes place. These are 250 men dressed in women's clothes. Their performance goes on non-stop for 10 hours. And yet the main event of the carnival is the parade of samba schools in Rio. “Inflate your prices for beans, but let me dance the samba freely!” - sung in a carnival song. Square-toed shoes with silver buckles, white stockings, slouchy bloomers, brocade jackets, plumed hats; ladies in skirts with fijma, decollete to the limit - the royal courts of Europe go to the rhythm of the samba. And under the brocaded suits with gold - swarthy bodies, curly dark hair - Africa.

At the same time, hundreds of thousands of spectators gather in Recife and ritual dances of the Indians, in Olinda - the traditional parade of huge wax models, in Ouru Preto - "medieval" student festivities ... Everywhere there are a huge number of beauty contests, masquerade balls, costume contests. And all this is the Brazilian carnival. Five days in which only surgeons and their patients, babies and women in childbirth remain uninvolved in the madness of the holiday.

What to see in Brazil

Aunt Charlie from the Soviet film "Hello, I'm your aunt!" she was clearly cunning, remembering Brazil only as a country where there are many, many wild monkeys. Luxurious nature, richness of national, cultural and sports traditions have made these places extremely interesting for tourists.

The most popular areas for guests include the following:

Amazon tours

A cruise on this legendary river will leave a lot of unforgettable impressions. You will be able to get acquainted with the unique flora and fauna of the region, catch a bloodthirsty piranha on the bait of raw meat, see the heroine of many chilling horror films - the anaconda, observe the behavior of bloodthirsty caimans, and night walks with a guide in a canoe will not leave fans of extreme recreation indifferent. Arriving in the capital of the state of Amazonas, you can feel like a pioneer pioneer, observing the life and peculiarities of the life of the natives. The primeval nature of the jungle at the confluence of the Black River (Rio Negro) with the Amazon will remain in your memory for a long time. In it will be interesting to visit the palace of Palassiu Negro, the museums of Indians and numismatics, the church of San Sebastian. Only here, just a few kilometers from the city, one can observe a unique phenomenon - the confluence of the Rio Negro and Solimões rivers, the waters of which, due to differences in density, do not mix at all and flow for long kilometers side by side with two multi-colored streams.

The unique climatic conditions, the warm Atlantic currents passing near the coast and the proximity of the equator have made these places a real pearl of sea tourism. One of the longest beaches in the world - Copacabana, whose golden sands stretch for six kilometers, luxurious Ipanema or elite Leblon will give anyone, even the most demanding tourist, an unforgettable vacation and leave the warmest memories. Collectors of interesting facts will be curious to know that it was on Copacabana that first appeared bikini bikini swimsuits, which to this day are considered the hallmark of this place. Near one of the most prestigious areas of the city is Ipanema Beach. This is a favorite vacation spot for both guests of Rio de Janeiro and local residents. On weekends, the road that runs along the beach is blocked for vehicles and is at the mercy of numerous fans of roller skating, bicycles and skateboards. Volleyball, sand football and other outdoor games are also popular here.

The beach for successful businessmen and the so-called "golden" youth was Leblon, which belongs to the city district of the same name.

All sights of Brazil

Rio de Janeiro

One of the most visited cities in Brazil by tourists is Rio de Janeiro. This is due to both a well-developed infrastructure and a huge number of attractions.

What to bring from Brazil?

If you want to buy a souvenir of Brazil as a souvenir or bring a gift to friends and relatives, then pay attention to the options:

• Coffee. Among the wide variety of varieties, connoisseurs recommend paying attention to Rio, Parana, Santos, Minas and Victoria. They are grown in different states of Brazil, each has a unique aroma and taste.
• Cachaca. A special vodka made from sugar cane, aged for at least one year in special wooden barrels. It is produced both in small family haciendas and in large enterprises. In the first case, the price of a drink for objective reasons will be much higher.
• Jewelry from gems. When buying such a gift, be careful. It is better to purchase gemstone products in large shopping centers or stores with a solid reputation. The price will be higher, but the risk of getting an ordinary colored glass for your money will be reduced to zero. With semi-precious stones it is much easier - you can safely buy them in small shops, forging such products is simply unprofitable.
• Bottles with colored sand. One of the most popular souvenirs, because it is made right before your eyes: within a few minutes, the master creates amazing images inside a transparent container using only a wooden stick.
• Hammock. This invention of the Indians has firmly entered the list of must-have souvenirs. You can purchase both wicker and woven products. If you plan to use it for its intended purpose, then give preference to the second option - it is stronger, more convenient and safer.

Often, tourists buy various wooden figurines skillfully carved by local craftsmen in memory of Brazil. No less popular is lace, the weaving of which is a traditional type of applied art for these places. Leather products are of high quality: bags, belts, wallets and purses, shoes.

Keeping in mind that trips to Brazil are unlikely to become regular for you, do not skimp on gifts for yourself and your loved ones.

What you need to know when going to Brazil

Brazil is a fabulous country. The only negative for a Russian tourist is its remoteness. It is this fact that leads to the fact that tours here are quite expensive - the cost of a transatlantic flight affects. In addition, the amount of your expenses may be affected by what goals are included in the voyage. If you just want to lie on the beach, then an independent trip with a preliminary purchase of air tickets and hotel reservations will be justified, for which you can use the services of our website. If you want to travel around the country, you should give preference to rest as part of a tourist group. This is not only economically beneficial, but also saves you from organizational difficulties.

Brazilians are very hospitable and open people, ready to help a foreigner to get used to a foreign country. This applies to small cities, but in Brasilia or Sao Paulo, for example, be prepared to sometimes meet with the impoliteness, rudeness and isolation of local residents.

Visa

If your stay in Brazil does not exceed three months, you do not need to open a visa.

There are several types of Brazilian visas: transit (types A, B), short-term (type C) and national (type D). Citizens of the Russian Federation can obtain a visa at the consular section of the Brazilian Embassy in Moscow, which is located at: 121069, Moscow, st. Nikitskaya, 54. Contact phone +7 095 290 28 30.

When visiting the country without a visa, a person does not have the right to immigrate to Brazil and engage in entrepreneurial activities there. When entering the country, the traveler must have sufficient funds, and must also have a confirmation of the reservation from the hotel or inn. All this may be required when crossing the border.

The amount of foreign currency allowed to a tourist is not regulated, but if you have more than 1000 US dollars with you, you must indicate this in the declaration. There are certain restrictions on the import of the national currency, and you can only export it if you have a license from the Brazilian Central Bank. Without paying a fee, you can take with you a video camera, a player, a radio receiver and a notepad with electronic memory - all of which are no more than one unit.

Naturally, weapons, drugs and many medicines are prohibited from being imported. It is strictly forbidden to export any animals, as well as products made from skins, shells, claws or feathers. Attempts of such smuggling are very severely punished.

Transport

The main mode of transport in the country is automobile. Brazil is surrounded by almost 2 million kilometers of roads, most of which are located on the coastline of the country. All major highways and autobahns are in excellent condition, but the roads in the north of the country leave much to be desired.

Long distances are best covered by local airlines. The number of flights and their branching make it possible to perfectly cope with passenger traffic. When choosing an intercity bus as a means of transport, it makes sense to stop at the most expensive and comfortable option, which is called leito here. Instead of chairs in the salons, special beds are installed, so that you can comfortably spend time on the road. It is better to book a place in such a sleeping bus in advance, at least a day or two in advance. Only on the route from the capital to Sao Paulo there will be no problems, since transport leaves for a flight every half hour.

To travel around the city, it is best to take a taxi. Prices are comparable to European ones, but the distances here are much longer. If you decide to take a taxi, remember: the newer the car, the more expensive the trip will be. Plus, for the operation of the air conditioner in the car, a fee is charged separately. Municipal transport is also well developed in cities, and there is a metro in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. Many domestic transportations, including passenger ones, are carried out by water transport.

The first rule is never to drink tap water. The consequences of such a thoughtless act can be the most unpleasant. Swim with caution - coastal ocean currents can be dangerous for an inexperienced swimmer. There are no special vaccination requirements when visiting Brazil by local authorities, but if you plan to travel through the Amazon, it makes sense to purchase malaria pills and get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B.

Before going out, be sure to use sunscreen, because the sun is “hot” here, and foreigners who are not used to such heat should choose cosmetics with the highest level of protection against burns.

As for swimming in the ocean, in Brazil you need to be careful, even if a person is an excellent swimmer. The fact is that strong ocean currents dominate here, which run along the coastline. For this reason, so-called "standing" waves arise, capable of creating a powerful surf zone.

Safety

A particular problem in Brazilian cities are local hooligans. In order not to risk your health and your valuables, do not take solo walks to unfamiliar areas, do not carry original documents and a lot of cash with you. Trips and excursions as part of a tourist group are much safer.

We do not recommend counting on the help of street guards. Here the police are especially phlegmatic. It will be useful to write down or remember the emergency numbers: 192 - ambulance; 193 - fire department; 199 - police. By the way, there are separate telephone numbers for the tourist police: 511-51-12 and 511-57-67.

The classification of hotels in Brazil is the same as in Europe. Service in a three-star hotel in most cases is at a very decent level, there are also a number of first-class hotels with a five-star category. Service usually leaves a positive impression on tourists, if you do not take into account the habit of many workers not to be too hasty with errands at the agreed time. The voltage in the mains is different from the traditional 220 V in Russia, but this should not bother guests - the receptionist will definitely offer a power adapter.

Money

The country's monetary unit is the Brazilian Real. The currency is rare for the exchange offices of Russian banks, so our compatriots take with them a dollar that has been proven on their travels. It will not be any problem to exchange it for national money, it is best to use the banking service for this. They usually work on a five-day week from 10 am to 4 pm. The same services are provided to travelers in large shopping centers, travel agencies, and hotels. The specifics of the exchange in hotels is that here you will only accept American currency.

Credit cards are used everywhere to pay for services and purchases in shopping malls and hotels. Going to a restaurant, it is better to take reais with you - US dollars and checks are not accepted in all establishments. It is important to know that the exchange rate of traveler's checks is noticeably lower than that of cash. In Brazil, as in many other countries, it is necessary to tip service personnel. In restaurants, they usually make up to 10% of the amount indicated on the bill, in simpler establishments you can get by with one or two reais, but on the beach it is generally not customary to encourage money. When paying for a trip in a taxi, it is customary to round up the meter readings, you will have to pay separately if you ask to turn on the air conditioner in the car. Don't forget to tip the hairdresser and gas station attendant if you use their services.

Brazilian cuisine

Due to the prevailing national and historical conditions, Brazilian cuisine is quite eclectic. The fusion of African, European and Native American traditions has shaped the local culinary traditions. The influence of Portugal today is reflected in pot-cooked goulash, grilled meats and sweet egg-based desserts, cheese-making and smoking skills, and the use of ingredients such as salted cod, garlic, olives, quince and almonds.

The culinary traditions of the American Indians, the original inhabitants of the continent, can be seen in the cooking customs of South America. African slaves brought to Brazil in the 17th century to work on sugar plantations brought with them palm oil, coconut, dried shrimp, plantain, okra and original African recipes. Later, the gold rush and the rubber and coffee booms brought in immigrants from Italy, Germany, China and Japan and their culinary traditions. In addition, the cuisine of each region of Brazil has its own characteristics, shaped by history and geographical location.

The most interesting dishes include assorted special black beans, meat, flour and vegetables with spices, fried sarapatel liver with various sauces, and sun-dried meat. Amazes tourists and a huge variety of tropical fruits. You can taste delicious soft drinks prepared on their basis, and beer lovers will be pleased with the excellent quality of local products.

You can do this with Air France or Iberia flights. Having made a flight on the Moscow-Rio route, with a connection in one of the European cities (Paris, Madrid, London or Amsterdam), in 17-20 hours you will find yourself in South America. You can fly to Sao Paulo by liners of the same companies. Lufthansa and Swiss Air planes also make regular flights to this city.

Low price calendar for flights to Brazil

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