Brazilian+Money




 * What symbols, other visual elements, on currency say about a nation’s values?**

On the front of the Brazillian currency is a picture of a woman wearing a roman crown of leaves. This symbol was first used in 1889 after the proclamation of the Republic. It is displayed on government buildings as well as the currency. This symbol is most likely used to align and lend authority to Brazil’s relatively new government with older, established Republics like Rome and France (The woman is similar to France’s Marianne). On the reverse side of each banknote is a picture of an animal that is native to Brazil. These animals include, the Sapphire-Spangled Emerald Hummingird (one real), the Hawksbill turtle (2 reais), the Great Egret (5 reais), the Green-Winged Macaw (10 reais), the Golden Lion Tamarin (20 reais), the Jaguar (50 reais), and the Dusty Grouper (100 reais). These animals are probably used to emphasize the country’s pride in it’s environment. The currency was created in 1994, a time when people were very conscious of protecting nature, especially the Amazon and the endangered species that live there. Brazil was criticized in the 90’s for its destruction of the rainforest and the indigenous people and animals living in it. By printing pictures of these animals on their currency, Brazil’s government is showing that they care about environmental issues. · What is emphasized? Religion? Government? History? Abstract principles (democratic symbols on Dollar)? Two things are emphasized on these bills—the ideas of Republican government and the importance of nature.

· How is color used? Why? Vibrant color is used on the real. A reason for this could also be environmental. The colors are much like those you would find in the lush rainforest. This again connects the currency and the government to the idea of conservation and environmental awareness.

· What political statements or philosophies are being articulated through symbols?

By using a symbol of Republican government, one associated with Roman and French culture, the government is attempting lend a sense of history to its relatively young government.

· How might a traveler “read” the currency differently than a citizen?
 * **A traveler would most likely look at the money and relate it to ideas they already hold about ancient Roman government. He/she would also look at the animals and relate the country with environmental conservation. However, a citizen may not even think of these things when handling the currency because he/she is used to seeing it every day. This currency seems to hold more symbolic value for outsiders rather than insiders.** **

 · What is conspicuously absent? Why?
 * **Conspicuously absent are depictions of government buildings and political figures. This may be because the government is choosing to use their currency as a platform to support political ideas (like the idea of Roman government and environmental conservation) rather than as direct propaganda for the State.** **