A emigração laborativa portuguesa para o Brasil: da segunda metade do século XX ao início do século XXI

Abstract

The emigration of individuals to distant lands can be motivated by a series of factors, both linked to living conditions in the place of origin and to opportunities at the destination, including cultural and historical aspects. This Master's dissertation proposes a comparative analysis of two different periods of Portuguese migration to Rio de Janeiro: firstly, the 50s and 60s of the last century, analysing their motivations, how they were consolidated and the processes involved; then, it aims to compare this movement with the more recent emigration of Lusitanians to Brazil, in order to obtain results that point to changes in the migratory process and its impacts. The variations in the social and economic elements of both countries were taken into account, as well as historical events that directly influenced the flow. These range from purely labour-related events to political changes and major international events that have affected geopolitics and the global economy. Sociological and geographical theories were essential for the work. Based on authors from various human sciences, it was possible to formulate hypotheses, draw up parameters and place them in front of the data collected in order to discuss the results within the research itself. A theoretical-empirical comparison was also made through interviews with individuals belonging to the process in question in order to verify the applicability of the previously formulated hypotheses. Following this methodology, it was possible to arrive at elements that point to a migratory culture and networks of solidarity favouring and connecting immigrants throughout history, on both sides of the Atlantic.