'Ronco da Abelha': popular resistance and conflict in the National-State consolidation process

Abstract

The aim of this research is the reconstitution of the rebellions occurred in several regions in Brazil, between December 1851 and March 1852, called "Ronco da Abelha" (The bee's snore) or "Guerra dos Marimbondos" (The War of Wasps). I intend to examine who the mutinous were, how the peace process took place, the engagement of the multiple agents of the rebellions, and their control, unveiling the character and the extent of the movement in each region. I will look for documents produced by local powers (especially mail and legal proceedings), and also documents from the central power that might help to understand the different political and social-economic conjuncture of the regions where the events occurred. The research focuses on the understanding of life styles and strategies used for survival among instability, an experience that marked large sectors of the Brazilian population during the 19th century.