Dandara & Luisa Mahin: How Racism and Sexism Affects our Histories Singing for Survival: Capoeira History

In this episode we take a look at the histories of Dandara and Luisa Mahin, and discuss how institutional racism and sexism has affected how they are remembered and viewed today.

Dandara is commonly known as the wife of Zumbi, and was a fierce warrior who helped defend the Palmares from the bandeirantes. She killed herself rather than be captured and is a powerful inspiration to many Capoeiristas today.

Luisa Mahin was a grocer and revolutionary in her own right and is said to have helped organize the Malê revolt. Her memory was persevered by the writings of her son, Luis Gama, a well-known Brazilian abolitionist. 

Serious debate has occurred in Brasil over the inclusion of these women in the Pantheon of the Fatherland and Freedom, with many saying they are not historically legitimate enough to be included. In this episode

Intro Music: Dandara by Nina Oliveira

Capoeira Music: É Dandara by Mestre Barrao and Carolina Soares

Please send me any questions and comments: desconfiado.mandinga@gmail.com