Manduca da Praia was an expert capoeira fighter and gang leader from 19th century Rio de Janeiro.

An engraving featuring Manduca da Praia and a group of capoeira fighters.

Manduca da Praia consistently dressed in remarkably elegant manner. It is said that he possessed a thriving fish market business and enjoyed a comfortable lifestyle.[1] Moreover, he held influence over electoral affairs in his residing area. Remarkably, despite facing a staggering 27 criminal charges (including assault and knife-related incidents), he consistently obtained acquittals, largely attributed to the political connections he maintained.[1]

When the renowned Portuguese jogo do pau expert Santana arrived in Rio, he sought out the most celebrated capoeira practitioner, Manduca da Praia.[2] They engaged in a fight, during which Manduca skillfully launched Santana into the air with a precisely aimed kick. Following the encounter, they shared a drink and forged a lasting comradeship.[2]

See also

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Literature

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  • Capoeira, Nestor (2007). The Little Capoeira Book. Blue Snake Books. ISBN 9781583941980.
  • Desch-Obi, Thomas J. (2008). Fighting for Honor: The History of African Martial Art Traditions in the Atlantic World. University of South Carolina Press. ISBN 978-1-57003-718-4.

References

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  1. ^ a b Capoeira 2007, pp. 12.
  2. ^ a b Desch-Obi 2008, pp. 180.