Era Vargas

Pedro Lucas's song 'Era Vargas' delves into the complex and multifaceted legacy of Getúlio Vargas, a pivotal figure in Brazilian history. The lyrics provide a narrative that spans Vargas's rise to power, his authoritarian rule, and his eventual return to democracy. The song opens with a reference to the 'Era Vargas,' a period marked by Vargas's initial coup and the establishment of the Estado Novo, a dictatorial regime. By declaring himself the 'father of the poor,' Vargas aimed to centralize power and implement policies that would both suppress opposition and garner popular support.

The song highlights the dual nature of Vargas's governance. On one hand, he is depicted as a dictator who censored the press and aligned with controversial figures like Hitler. On the other hand, he is shown as a reformer who established workers' rights and invested in industrialization. This dichotomy is further emphasized in the chorus, where the lyrics oscillate between themes of censorship and the establishment of social rights. The mention of 'queremismo' refers to the popular movement that supported Vargas's return to power, showcasing his enduring influence and the complex relationship he had with the Brazilian populace.

In the latter part of the song, Vargas's return to power as a democratically elected president is portrayed. Despite his efforts to rebrand himself and improve his image, the song suggests that his legacy remains controversial. The founding of Petrobras and the slogan 'O Petróleo é nosso' symbolize his nationalist policies, while his eventual downfall and the phrase 'Daqui só sai o morto' hint at the tragic end of his political career. Through its lyrics, 'Era Vargas' captures the essence of Vargas's rule—marked by both progress and repression, populism and authoritarianism, leaving an indelible mark on Brazil's history.