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10.5772/48351. Available from:
https://www.intechopen.com/books/biodiversity-enrichment-in-a-diverse-
world/efforts-to-combat-wild-animals-trafficking-in-brazil
Pernambuco (Angie Madsen)
Overview
Located on the Eastern coast of Brazil, where the continent juts out into the Atlantic Ocean,
Pernambuco is edged by187 kilometers (116 miles) of coastline. It is the seventh most
populated state in the country, and the capital city Recife is the fifth most populated. Nearby
Olinda is the second oldest city in Brazil. Pernambuco also boasts the largest Carnival
celebration in the world.
The peak tourist season generally begins in mid-December and runs through March, winding
down after the Carnival celebrations. Cuisine is centered upon fresh fish and tropical fruits.
One local specialty is carne do sol (a dried meat dish).
Football (soccer) was introduced to Pernambuco in Recife in 1902 by Dutch and English
sailors who kicked the ball around on the beach. In 2014, Recife was one of 12 Brazilian cities
to host the FIFA World Cup.
A brief history
Originally inhabited by numerous tribes of indigenous peoples who hunted and farmed for their
support, the area that now includes Pernambuco was settled by the Portuguese in the 16th
century and quickly grew, thanks to the prosperous sugar and cotton industries. Following
several clashes with the French, the Dutch briefly occupied the area beginning in 1630.
Portugal regained control in 1654.
In March 1817 the area formally declared independence from Portugal. The short-lived
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