Jair Bolsonaro

Jair Bolsonaro, a former army captain turned far-right president, gained attention for his anti-establishment stance and controversial policies, promising to combat crime, cut spending, and uphold conservative values.

Political Figure

March 21, 1955

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Jair Bolsonaro, born on March 21, 1955, in Glicério, São Paulo, Brazil, is a former army captain and far-right politician who rose to prominence as a vocal critic of Brazil’s political establishment and corruption. He completed his primary and secondary education in his hometown before attending the Military Academy of Agulhas Negras, graduating in 1977 as an artillery officer. Bolsonaro served in the Brazilian Army for nearly two decades, rising to the rank of captain and becoming known for his outspoken views and criticism of the military regime in Brazil. He faced disciplinary action and was briefly arrested for his political activities.

Bolsonaro entered politics in 1991, winning a seat in the Rio de Janeiro City Council and serving as a city councilman for seven consecutive terms. He was elected to the Brazilian Chamber of Deputies in 1991, representing the state of Rio de Janeiro, and became known for his conservative and right-wing political views. As a vocal critic of the Workers’ Party (PT) governments in Brazil, he gained popularity among conservative voters for his tough stance on crime and corruption.

In 2018, Bolsonaro was elected President of Brazil, defeating Fernando Haddad of the PT, and took office on January 1, 2019. His presidency has been marked by controversial policies, including environmental deregulation, support for gun rights, and conservative social views. He has faced criticism for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and his attacks on the media and democratic institutions. Despite his controversial views, Bolsonaro remains a popular figure among many Brazilians, particularly those who support his conservative agenda.

Following the end of his term in 2022, Bolsonaro faced legal challenges and investigations related to his actions during his presidency. In 2023, a panel of judges ruled that he abused his power and cast unfounded doubts on the country’s electronic voting system, barring him from running for office until 2030.

During his time in Congress, Bolsonaro focused on national security, public safety, and family values. As President, he implemented several policies aimed at promoting economic growth and reducing government bureaucracy. Bolsonaro is a self-proclaimed admirer of former U.S. President Donald Trump and has been criticized for his use of social media to spread misinformation and attack his opponents.

Bolsonaro has been married three times, and his current wife is Michelle Bolsonaro. They have five children: Flávio, Carlos, Eduardo, Renan, and Laura. He is known for his love of motorcycles and his passion for Brazilian football (soccer).

Throughout his career, Bolsonaro has received several awards and honors, including the Order of Military Merit and the Grand Cross of the Order of Aeronautical Merit. His presidency has been marked by both controversy and support, with his policies and actions having a significant impact on Brazilian society and politics. His legacy will likely be debated for years to come, as he has left a lasting mark on the country’s history.