Capoeira
(Portuguese pronunciation: [kapuˈejɾɐ]) is an Afro-Brazilian art form that combines
elements of martial arts, music, and dance. It was created in Brazil by slaves
from Africa, especially from Angola, Mozambique and Congo sometime after the
sixteenth century. It was developed in the region of Quilombo dos Palmares,
located in the Brazilian state of Alagoas, which was the state of Pernambuco
before dismemberment, and has had great influence on Afro-Brazilian
generations, with strong presence in the states of Bahia, Pernambuco, Rio de
Janeiro and São Paulo. Participants form a roda, or circle, and take turns
either playing musical instruments (such as the Berimbau), singing, or ritually
sparring in pairs in the center of the circle. The sparring is marked by fluid
acrobatic play, feints, takedowns, and with extensive use of leg sweeps, kicks,
and headbutts. Less frequently used techniques include elbow strikes, slaps,
punches, and body throws. Its origins and purpose are a matter of debate, with
theories ranging from views of Capoeira as a uniquely Brazilian folk dance with
improvised fighting movements to claims that it is a battle-ready fighting form
directly descended from ancient African techniques.