This paper analyzes some views on Brazilian history produced and appropriated in three historiographical works from the first half of 19th century: History of Brazil, by R. Southey, Histoire du Brésil, by A. Beauchamp and the content of History of Brazil published in the weekly publication O Mentor das Brasileiras (The Brazilian Women Mentor). The analysis shows the work of translation and adaptation of texts as well the transformation in its material forms by the authors. The Brazilian version of this history, directed toward female readers, has as result a shorter text without some subjects as Indians cannibalism and polygamy and the Portuguese conquests of 16th century. This indicates the adequacy of the newspaper to its readers and its enrollment in a wider political project that aims to affirm Brazil as an independent and civilized nation.
History of Brazil; history or reading; press culture
