Abstract
The objective of this article is to analyze the possible meanings of the struggles for independence for a generation of “men of color” residing in Rio de Janeiro who, either took a direct part in the conflicts, or followed the engagement of parents, family members and friends. Despite the great advances in historiography in recent decades, in the case of Rio de Janeiro, the narratives about Independence still emphasize the role of more organized political groups and palace articulations. Thus, I intend to build a narrative of these struggles that makes other actors, experiences and political wills stand out. The central argument is that the population not only participated but was urged to participate in these struggles. Realizing, especially after October 1821, the fragility of his authority, compressed between fidelity to the House of Bragança and the oath to the foundations of the Constitution, the prince-regent d. Pedro advanced in negotiations - already known - with elites from São Paulo and Minas, but he also invested in the search for popular support. A participation that was later disqualified and gradually silenced.
Keywords:
Independence; war; social conflicts; struggle for rights