From its discovery by Cabral in 1500 to the end of the millennium in 2000, Brazil developed from a precarious colonial outpost to become the giant of South America and one of the largest and most populated nations of the modern world. A History of Brazil tells the story of five centuries of Brazilian history from Cabral's discovery to the presidency of Fernando Henrique Cardoso. Divided chronologically into five main historical periods, the chapters are also organised into separate sections so that coverage is given of political, economic, social and diplomatic aspects. Including a useful Guide to Further Reading, the book provides an invaluable informative synthesis of the key developments and events in Brazilian history.