A imigração italiana na Bahia: Jequié e sua ascenção

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the evolution of Italian immigration in Bahia, more specifically in the city of Jequié, in the south-central region of the state. The economic and population development of Jequié occurred in large part due to the immigration flow into this part of Bahia, and it is estimated that more than 150 families went to Jequié to venture better living conditions and decent work. In this research, I undertook to understand the first steps of the European migrants, going through the geographical conditions of the village of Jequié and its rise due to the combined efforts of both the Italians and the backlanders, in the search for progress. Our thesis being that because of this immigration flow, progress came without delay, the agglomerate became a village, and emancipation happened. Later, Jequié would become the 5th most important city of the State of Bahia, with more than 200,000 inhabitants today. In the city, there are still many elements which testify to its Italian roots, such as street names, squares and avenues and Italian surnames. They all maintain these not very well-known historical facts somehow alive in the history of Bahia. To support my research, I used the theoretical studies of: Araújo (1997), Marotta (2004), Tavares (2000) and Azevedo (1989), who helped me thinking about the Italian immigration to Brazil, more specifically to Jequié, and their presence in the region. The present work is essentially based on the reading and critical analysis of the available bibliography and is subdivided in two chapters, with Introduction and Conclusion: From the participation of Italians in the European overseas expansion to the occupation of the jequieense region and Italian immigration in Bahia: Jequié and its Rise.