The Abolition of Slavery in Brazil 1880's to 1890's.
The Law of 13 May 1888 abolishing slavery without compensation was the death blow to many plantation owners from Rio de Janeiro who had held a large number of slaves during a period of economic squeeze suffered severely in regions such as Rio de Janeiro. Abolition hastened the collapse of the Empire and the establishment of the Republic. Abolition, without compensation for the slave owners, led to traditional supporters from the planter classes in Rio de Janeiro abandoning the emperor and joining with republican planters from Sao Paulo. Brazilian abolition of slavery in 1888 was not followed by systematic efforts to improve the lot of former slaves. Many individuals and small family units continued to depend upon the plantation owners for their welfare. 10 pgs. 34 f/c. 15b.
