Roots of Brazil

Indigenous to Salvador, Brazil is the fighting form known as Capoeira. From the outside, it might appear as an acrobatic dance, or some sort of karate incorporating music and roundhouse kicks. The presentation is more theater than fighting to the outside observer. It is deceptively clever and excels at trickery. No mats are used here - this dance takes place on the streets.

The identity of the modern Brazilian woman is ever changing. This complex story of female empowerment is a transnational one, but one that is especially visible in Brazil and Latin America.

The minute you set foot in the streets of downtown Salvador, Brazil, you are met with the sound of these drums. These are the drums of Olodum. Sounds that have become iconic of the Afro-Brazilian identity and culture of this colorful colonial city.

The children of Salvador da Bahia, Brazil, sound just like any others. Happy, laughing, playing. But many of them face a difficult reality. Drugs and violence are daily concerns for many of these young children.

"Roots of Brazil" is a 5-part radio series exploring Brazil's cultural origins by illuminating Salvador da Bahia, a city at the center of the country's rich history. Producer Dani Hayes sat down with those who were able to travel to Salvador and interview those who are influencing modern-day Brazil.