Capoeira
Capoeiras origins are covered in mist, partly because of poor documentation of this extraordinary Brazilian martial arts. The common theory claims it was originally a war dance in some Angolan tribes and brought to Brazil with the slave trade. In Brazil Capoeira evolved into a full blown martial art, disguised as a dance in order to lower the suspicion of the Portuguese landlords. Runaway slaves practiced Capoeira in mountain hideouts, preparing themselves to encounters with the law. This caused the Brazilian government to prohibit the practice of Capoeira, a ban that lasted up until the beginning of the 20th century. The two major styles of Capoeira are Capoeira de Angola and Capoeira Regional, the first of which is a slower more traditional style while the latter is a faster, modern variation of this art.
Capoeira involves many instruments, most of the musical instruments used to accompany the capoeira fighters in their common dance.
Capoeira involves many instruments, most of the musical instruments used to accompany the capoeira fighters in their common dance.