“Independence or death!”

Known as “The cry of Ipiranga”, the exclamation, by Dom Pedro I, is what is considered the moment Brazil became effectively independent, in 1822, exactly 200 years ago, this year.

On September 7, 2022, I’ll go for a circular walk from the center of São Paulo, Marco Zero, to the location of the “grito de independencia”, and back. See the map, above, for the projected, fairly straightforward, 15km route.

I’ll start around 10am at Sé, where PT, the Worker’s Party, is expected to hold a rally. Meanwhile, the president of the country, Bolsonaro, is not too likely to stage a coup, but might try his hand at working towards one.

The Museum of Ipiranga should not yet be open to the public, but might be open to a select audience.

I’ll stop along the way three times, to toast each of the three royal rulers of Brazil who have set foot on Brazilian soil, John VI, Dom Pedro I, and Dom Pedro II.

Like all three royals, I’ll return to where I started, passing through a representation of the history of Brazil.

If you’re in the area, consider joining me on what appears is going to be a pleasant day. Notwithstanding any potential coup attempts.